Go Outside and Play

14/04/2023 6 min
Go Outside and Play

Listen "Go Outside and Play"

Episode Synopsis

Today's episode is inspired by the suddenly gorgeous spring (summer?) weather we've been having in Chicago this week. It's also about developing a "play ethic" (as opposed to merely a "work ethic), and reflecting on how playfulness is fundamental to a generative spirituality. Dr. Stuart Brown is a psychiatrist and the founder of the National Institute for Play. He defines play as engaging in an activity for enjoyment, rather than for a serious or practical reason. Play has seven properties:it is apparently purposeless;it is voluntary;there is an inherent attraction to it;while doing it there is freedom from time;it diminishes the consciousness of self;it has improvisational potential (open, not ridged); andit has a continuation desire which makes you want to do it more.I also mention the thoughtful and new-ish book by Brian Edgar, The God Who Plays: A Playful Approach to Theology and Spirituality. If I ever take a sabbatical, I want "play" to be the theme I focus on!Feedback? I'd love to hear from you at [email protected]. Thanks for listening, friends. You are loved and never alone!