PLAY!!!!

 Play “activities that are done especially by children for fun or enjoyment” - Merriam-Webster Dictionary

I paused when I read this definition of play.  Why do they qualify the word, play as being for children?  Can’t adults play too?

I use play in virtually everything I do!  I am inspired by many experiences in Parkour, where play is a central theme.  I have laughed having snowball fights, playing red light green light, and a variety of other games.  Because of this, in my life, from performing to teaching to movement, I look for play.  I even try to make the mundane playful.

In my Body Mapping course this fall, I begin each class with some kind of play.  Usually unrelated to music-making, but completely related to awareness, energy, and intention. It has made a huge difference in connecting with students, the alertness of participants, the vibe of the class, and in PLAYing. (Oh, and it’s completely memorable!)

Think about your typical day, you may play your instrument (substitute your activity of choice here).  We play performances.  We play when we practice.

I think we often change the meaning of playing when we are making music to things like “trying to get it right”, a concert, a lesson. It is helpful to remember the word, play when approaching music-making. 

What if “play” was the intention for all that you do?  From learning a tricky passage to performing an audition- play!  Discussions - tossing ideas back and forth can be playful!  Writing - can be play!  Even washing dishes can be playful.

The fun that play inspires can permeate “work.”  Bringing playful energy into interactions helps us not take ourselves too seriously, listen better, be creative, and experience joy in small moments. 

Let go of getting it right, or being the best, go play!  Connect with colleagues and joy!

Be curious…

P.S. I have learned my best games at Parkour!  Check it out!

The first session of “Breathe More Deeply” is coming to a close today. It has been such as success, I am offering again in November on Tuesdays 11/2, 11/9, 11/16. This workshop is for musicians AND people from all walks of life.

Tuesdays - Drop-In Body Mapping for Musicians, 3pm ET

Fridays - Body Mapping EVERYbody, 11am ET