Welcome

One of the things that I am enjoying about living in Wagga is the number of cafes there are to explore in town and the surrounding region. For a person who loves coffee and a good breakfast, I am delighted with the variety found here. On my weekends when I am in Wagga you will likely find me in one of our local cafes trying out the coffee and enjoying a yummy breakfast whilst I fill in my diary for the week. My aim is to try out as many cafes as I can by the end of the year. This is certainly something that I find fun and brings me joy! 

Fun is such an important part of living a flourishing life and is a gift from God. Especially as adults, how often do we do things that are just for fun? It is so easy to fill our lives with busyness that we forget to stop and smell the roses once in a while. Play is a vital part of learning as a young child, but play has also been found to be a vital part of life for all ages. In the article, ‘The benefits of play for adults’ (linked below) there are five main reasons given for the benefits of play: 

• Relieve stress - Play is fun and can trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain. 
• Improve brain function - Playing chess, completing puzzles, or pursuing other fun activities that challenge the brain can help prevent memory problems and improve brain function. The social interaction of playing with family and friends can also help ward off stress and depression.  
• Stimulate the mind and boost creativity - Young children often learn best when they are playing—and that principle applies to adults, as well. You’ll learn a new task better when it’s fun and you’re in a relaxed and playful mood. Play can also stimulate your imagination, helping you adapt and problem-solve.  
• Improve relationships and your connection to others - Sharing laughter and fun can foster empathy, compassion, trust, and intimacy with others. Play doesn’t have to be a specific activity; it can also be a state of mind. Developing a playful nature can help you loosen up in stressful situations, break the ice with strangers, make new friends, and form new business relationships.  
• Keep you feeling young and energetic - In the words of George Bernard Shaw, “We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” Playing can boost your energy and vitality and even improve your resistance to disease, helping you feel your best. 

So, as you are planning life over the next few weeks, I encourage you to find some time to do something for yourself or with your family that is just for fun!

The Benefits of Play for Adults.pdf (playaustralia.org.au) 

Mrs Lisa Dumicich

Principal