Play is not just for little kids anymore. Research is now showing that play is necessary for adults, too. Yes, all of us adults need time to play and it’s the last thing we typically allow ourselves time for. Play could be taking dance classes, hiking in the woods, or making jewelry…or learning a skill like upholstery–not that I’m biased or anything! ?

Play is exploring new things outside your comfort zone. When you try something new, your brain lights up…so it keeps us young-at-heart. It’s about doing something and being in the flow instead of focusing on the planned outcome. It’s therapeutic and helps to reduce and manage our stress. It helps us have a more positive outlook on life. Instead of feeling bitter or trapped, we are actively bettering ourselves and finding joy in the process.

When I took my upholstery courses, I did it for fun. I had a career as an educational consultant…which was stressful and time consuming. But I was determined to carve out time to play. So, I signed up for a 32 course in upholstery. It was a blast and I found myself looking forward to each Saturday in the course. Before that, I took dance lessons! I also tried learning Egyptian hieroglyphics—that didn’t quite work out so much! ?

But upholstery did stick and eventually became my new job. What I love about it so much is the transformation that I can create. Just look at some of these transformations below…it gets my blood pumping!

If you think that upholstery might be the right “play” activity for you…you are in for a treat! I just launched my online upholstery course and I’m sharing it with the world. Enrollment is only going to be open for the rest of the week, and then will close for a while so that I can focus on those in the course. Click here to find out more! And regardless, make play (whatever lights you up) a focus of your new routine!