In this episode of Retrieving Sanity, host Keegan Read speaks with Zander, the Z Play coach, about the significance of play in our lives, especially as adults. Zander emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with our childlike spirit through play, discussing techniques to activate a 'play flow state' and the benefits of activities like juggling and using a footbag. The conversation explores how play can enhance mental health, foster connections, and combat self-consciousness, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace playfulness in their daily lives. In this conversation, Zander shares his passion for play and the importance of creating connections through playful activities. He discusses the ultimate gift of play, the tools he creates to facilitate it, and the personal connections that arise from sharing these experiences. The dialogue explores the challenges of adulting, the need for permission to play, and the responsibility that comes with spreading joy. Zander emphasizes the significance of making time for play, especially in a digital age that often distracts from real human connections. The conversation concludes with a focus on combating digital isolation and the importance of fostering community through play. In this engaging conversation, Keegan Read and Zander explore the challenges of digital addiction, particularly among the younger generation, and the importance of finding balance between technology and real-life interactions. They discuss the significance of play in rediscovering purpose and joy, especially in a world increasingly influenced by AI. The conversation also highlights the power of gratitude in overcoming life's challenges and the importance of mental health awareness, emphasizing the need for accessible crisis support.Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Play and Its Importance

03:06 Understanding the Play Flow State

05:57 The Role of Play in Adult Life

09:12 Techniques to Reconnect with Play

12:00 The Benefits of Juggling for Mental Health

15:02 Exploring the Footbag and Its Impact

19:36 The Ultimate Gift of Play

20:26 Creating and Sharing Play Tools

22:30 The Power of Personal Connection

23:43 The Gift of Play and Its Impact

24:37 Permission to Play

26:04 Navigating the Responsibility of Joy

27:40 Making Time for Play

29:00 Breaking Down Barriers to Play

30:36 Play in Serious Situations

32:18 Addressing Digital Distractions

35:20 Combating Digital Isolation

36:54 The Importance of Human Connection

39:13 The Struggle with Digital Addiction

42:06 Finding Balance in Gaming and Real Life

43:03 Rediscovering Purpose in a Tech-Driven World

44:41 The Role of Play in Finding Joy and Purpose

50:15 The Power of Gratitude in Overcoming Challenges

55:20 Crisis Support and Mental Health Awareness

#play #mentalhealth #retrievingsanity #personalgrowth #permission #flowstate #playstate #footbag #digitaladdiction #happiness