How often do you let yourself have fun, let your hair down or be silly? An important part of connecting with your inner child is allowing yourself to do just that. For some that might mean being creative and artistic, for others it may mean being silly and playing jokes or games. A walk in nature or enjoying sweets or cakes may be other ways we feel that joy of being free and childlike. Whatever you are drawn to do is the right way for you, everyone is different.
So why bother to engage in this sort of play as fully grown adults? Engaging in these activities allows your natural joy to shine through, giving your life more balance and reducing stress. Your inner child knows exactly what each of you individually loves to do to really have fun, relax and get fully absorbed in that relaxation and play. After all everyone is different. It also helps you to connect with your inner child, building a stronger relationship that develops feelings of safety, strength and of more relaxation, fun and self-reliance as an adult.
To connect with your inner child for some play time set aside a few hours one day. Give yourself time to plan for this day in case you need any materials or travel so you can be fully prepared. Make a commitment to yourself that this time is just for you to play with your inner child and ensure that you won’t have interruptions. If you have children or grandchildren, then they can be fully involved too if you want them to and it feels appropriate for you. It’s all about fun.
To find out what your inner child likes to do for fun and play, take a little time to sit somewhere quiet and relax. Imagine your inner child is sitting on your lap. Notice what age they are and how they are feeling. Give them a big hug and let them know how much you love them and how important they are to you. Let them know that you would like to spend some time with them having fun and doing whatever makes them the happiest. Allow them to answer you. If you are not very visual, just imagine the feeling of having your inner child close to you feeling happy and playful. See what ideas come into your mind. If the idea makes you feel lighter, then it is a good idea for play. For some, it may be going to the beach or being near the sea, for others it may be making something or having an ice cream, there is no right or wrong.
When you have found your idea for play with your inner child, you can plan for the time you have set aside and just enjoy doing whatever you have chosen. While experiencing this time, imagine your inner child is there with you, enjoying this activity too. Allow yourself to get fully absorbed in what you are doing, without allowing your normal everyday jobs or thoughts to interfere.
When it is complete, notice how you feel. Do you feel lighter and more relaxed; did time go quickly or slowly? If you feel good, make time regularly for similar activities, as often as feels right for you.
These activities can really help people to connect with their intuitive and creative sides or just help to learn to relax and have fun. Try it out for yourself and see what happens.
Love, light, joy and giggles Pippa King
