There is a quote I absolutely love from a movie called Tag:

“We don’t stop playing because we get old. We get old because we stop playing!”.

Whilst the movie itself might seem silly, the premise of it resonates deeply with me. The movie is actually based on real events/people so feel free to look that up sometime. Essentially its about a group of grown men who continue, once school finishes, to play the game of tag once a year to help each other stay connected as their lives get busier and, of course, as they grow older.

Now growing up I was lucky enough to be exposed to adults playing. Whether it be running around with water pistols or water balloons. Or a game of tag or riding the slides with us. All I remember is a lot of laughter. It was loud and exhausting for everyone involved.

Have you ever really noticed what happens to an adult when they are in a true amount of joy?

That bright look upon their face as they can’t contain their happiness. Their face squeezes into to an expression of utter joy with a wide toothy grin leaving no room but for us to respond accordingly. Yet on another level what we don’t see is them reconnecting to the emotions of their inner child.

Often what follows this kind of play is a state of relaxation, laughter and connection. Not only to oneself but to others. All of sudden adult problems fade away for a few moments.

Our adult minds, for some reason that I’m sure has a clinical explanation, are prone to overthinking and we often spend our days reliving the past or imagining a foreboding future. But when we play, we can only reside in the present moment. Right here, right now.

I’m not saying go start a game of tag but if that lights you up, for sure, go do it. To be honest its Miss Matilda’s favourite game! Not a day goes by without us running around the yard carrying on.

What I am asking you is to have a think about what brings you pure joy?

What brings you back to a joyful emotion from your childhood where you had no cares, worries or responsibilities (no bills!)?

I suspect if we want happier, longer lives then we need to seek more joy, more often.

So, I guess all that’s left to be said is: TAG, your it!

See you on the mat,

Tracy