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### This week’s @EcoTrain Question of the Week (QOTW) asks *Why is play time important and what are your favorite ways to play?*

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## Play is one of those things we're told that we grow out of...

> I fully believe in the importance of maintaining a play practice as it can help support physical, emotional and spiritual balance. Play is not the opposite of work, but is a just as important factor of life.

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## Play is a fantastic way to embody and support the inner child. 

I always am reminded of the many ways I can engage with the world when I play. With so much of my life and passion wrapped up in work, I find much satisfaction and enjoyment in playing. 

> *To do things just for fun, to cultivate a sense of awe and see the world through fresh eyes. This is what it means to me to play.*


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<center><h2>Flow toys are one of my favorite ways to play</h2></center>

### Toys that engage the body and relax the mind are a great way that I get out of my driven mind and focus on something less goal oriented.

# I like to play with the bo staff and flower sticks, 2 toys that hone my hand eye coordination and are a sort of meditation. 

*I think it's the challenge of playing with such movement oriented toys that keeps me in the moment and out of my head. The constant sense of balance required is a great way to stay focused.*

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> I welcome any ways that I can enter the present moment and let go of all the stresses, burdens and thoughts that fill my head. 

***
## Playtime is something that we do instinctively as children, so why is it that we forsake this important act as grown ups? 

I've often wondered this and cannot understand why we stop playing. It's a healthy and rewarding way to relieve stress, connect and build skills. 

***
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### Playing is a very effective way to build overall health, balance and vitality. 

*As adults we are told that we socialize, not play.*

Most often this is tied to some manner of consumption, which doesn’t require one's full attention or necessitate connection. Play on the other hand is usually focused on creativity and movement, things that can shake things up and open new pathways of thought, feeling and understanding. It is also a great way to relieve stress and 

> We can never forget to play and it's vitality important to ALWAYS keep playing. 



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