Numerous research studies have shown that when we relax and play, we become happier, more creative, healthier, and more resilient to life's setbacks. Our physiology actually changes. Our blood pressure drops, our endocrine glands release natural painkilling hormones, and our tensely held muscles finally let go and relax. We even become more effective and productive at work if we find time for lighthearted fun in the midst of our busy days and weeks.

       We've cluttered our lives with countless activities, commitments to empty relationships, and a long list of "shoulds" that steal a little of our lightheartedness every day. Our lives run us into exhaustion, when we really wish we could go through life with a greater sense of pleasure and relaxation. We've convinced ourselves that it's wrong or childish to be silly or laugh out loud. We have strict times and ways that are appropriate to play. Heaven forbid we should play too often! We've even become convinced that only certain types of "fun" are now acceptable -- after all, we are adults not children. Yet, a little voice inside of us continues to demand our own brand of playfulness and fun. In our hearts, most of us know that fun is good for us.

	"In every real man a child is hidden that wants to play." Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche

       There are many types of fun, as you will discover through this web site and online activity book. Some of us take our fun very seriously, and that's okay. The key is to understand what relieves your tension and stress -- and do it -- as long as it's not at someone else's expense. Even if your natural personality prompts you to finish your work before playing, find a moment or two of playfulness and fun when you're stuck in the middle of a problem. Why? Research shows that fun fosters learning and creativity, and creativity is what brings meaning to our lives. The things we find interesting and important are the result of creativity. When we get "stuck" we aren't being creative anyway. Instead of beating yourself or moaning about it, jump start your creative process with a three minute play break. It can be as simple as hopping onto a web page filled with jokes. You'll become "unstuck" or at least find greater enjoyment in the process of being "stuck".

       Playful activities and attitudes help smooth out the unavoidable bumps that happen in every type of relationship. Having trouble with your teenager? Children are naturally drawn to adults who know how to play and who enjoy playing. Get down from your teaching podium and preach more playfully. They didn't hear you the first ten times, and saying it ten more times isn't the key to getting through to them. Besides, teaching a child how to become more serious isn't usually the key to making them more responsible.

       Communication, cooperation, trust, sharing, morale, productivity and profitability all increase when people play together as well as work together. In addition, sick time and tension decrease. Start your next "serious" conference or workshop with a playful activity, and watch participants become more confidant, communicate more effectively with each other, and participate more enthusiastically, regardless of the meeting's topic.

	"Work and play are words used to describe the same thing under differing conditions." Mark Twain

       Laughter can transport us beyond frustration and disappointment, provide a healthy release for anger and change the way we handle interpersonal conflict. Laughter is good for our physiology as well as our state of mind. It improves our blood circulation, helps us breath deeper, and releases catecholamines and endorphins which decrease our perception of pain. Laughing causes us to contract our abdominal muscles -- much more fun than doing stomach crunches -- and causes a reflexive relaxation of other muscles groups. It also improves our digestion by massaging our intestines. Since laughter helps us manage our stress, it improves our immune cell function and helps lower high blood pressure.

       So, try something new, make mistakes, take your time, make a mess (and clean it up!), find the courage to experiment with new ways and new things, and most of all, do whatever healthy things make you laugh the hardest and the most often.