Aspire Magazine: Inspiration for a Woman's Soul.(TM) August/September 2015 Unleashing Your Magnificence | Page 70

5. Creating connections. Through play and relaxation activities we strengthen the connection with our self, our family and friends, our spiritual connection, and with the world around us. It creates social opportunities and encourages interaction, which ward off stress and depression. Sharing laughter and fun can foster empathy, compassion, trust, and intimacy. Developing a playful nature can help break the ice with strangers, make new friends, and form new relationships. Playing with your kids makes them smarter, better adjusted, and less stressed. activity lowers blood pressure, enhances sleep, helps to maintain healthier weight, and improves resistance to disease. Laughter increases the activity of antibodies in the body by 20%, helping destroy viruses and tumor cells. 4. Reducing stress. Levels of stress hormones in the body are reduced, providing enjoyment, and promoting a sense of calm. Endorphins to improve mood and overall wellbeing are released. 6. Strengthening imagination and creativity. Play releases us from the constraints of logical thinking, allowing us to access new ideas and inspiration. 7. Releasing emotional energy. Whether we’re trying to manage anger, depression, anxiety, sadness, or any challenging emotion, physical activity and leisure provides positive outlets 70 www.AspireMAG.net | August / September 2015