When we think of “play,” we usually picture kids on the playground playing a game of tag. But here’s a little secret: adults need play just as much as kids do! In fact, I’d argue that creative play for adults is one of the best ways to keep ourselves feeling alive, joyful, and in tune with who we really are. Play doesn’t just mean games or goofing off—it’s about allowing yourself to explore, express, and step into a creative space that feeds your soul. That’s what we’re going to talk about today!

As a watercolor artist and someone who’s passionate about helping people tap into their inner creativity, I can’t say enough about the benefits of creative play. Whether it’s picking up a brush, writing a story, learning a new song on the piano, or singing, creative play is a tool that helps us escape the pressures of daily life and reconnect with inner selves. 

So let’s dive into what creative play looks like for adults and how you can (and should!) make it part of your life!

What is Creative Play?

First, let’s define creative play (sounds boring—but I want to make sure we are on the same page). Creative play is any activity that lets you use your imagination, make things with your hands, and express yourself freely—without worrying about rules or perfection. 

For adults, this could mean painting, writing, dancing, crafting, or even something as simple as doodling in the margins of your notebook. It’s a way to let your mind wander, explore new ideas, and experiment without the pressure of getting it “right.”

The beauty of creative play is that it’s different for everyone. Some might feel most playful with a set of paints, while others might love picking up a guitar or cooking up something new in the kitchen. There’s no right or wrong way to play, and that freedom is what makes it SO rejuvenating.

Types of Creative Play for Adults

As you can see, there are endless ways to incorporate creative play into your life, and you don’t have to be a trained artist or musician to do it. Here are a few ideas to incorporate creative play for adults:

1. Painting

Painting is one of my favorite forms of creative play (no surprise there!). You can try watercolors, acrylics, or even finger paints if you’re feeling extra spontaneous. And remember, you don’t have to be a pro—this is about expression, not perfection. (And if you’re new to painting, check out my course, The Art Within, for some fun and accessible lessons on growing as an artist.)

2. Writing

Whether it’s daily journaling, poetry, or a short story, writing can be an incredible way to let your imagination run wild. You don’t need a big idea; just start writing and see where your thoughts take you. 

3. Music

It might surprise you, but music is a big part of who I am (even more than painting). Playing an instrument, singing, or even just listening to music and dancing around can be wonderfully freeing. 

It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, either! I recently picked up a stone whistle (random, I know) just for fun, and it’s been such a blast experimenting with it and learning to make music in a whole new way. You can check out my whistle-playing progress on Instagram! 

The point is, creative play for adults can be anything that makes you smile, even if it’s something totally unexpected (yes—even an unfortunate looking stone whistle iykyk 😆).

4. Improv

Improv isn’t just for actors! Trying an improv class or even just practicing with a friend can help you loosen up and learn to enjoy being in the moment. It’s a great way to play with ideas and build confidence.

5. Crafting

Crafting projects like knitting, pottery, or making DIY home decor are also forms of creative play that allow you to work with your hands and create something from scratch. (Bonus: you get something functional or decorative out of it, too!)

Myths About Play

As adults, we sometimes have a hard time giving ourselves permission to play. Let’s bust a few myths that might be holding you back:

1. Play is Only For Kids: Nope! Play is universal. Adults need creative play just as much, if not more, to help balance the responsibilities and stresses of daily life.
2. I’m Not Creative: Everyone has a creative side—it just looks different for each of us. You don’t have to paint like Picasso or write like Hemingway to enjoy the benefits of play.
3. Play is a Waste of Time: Actually, research shows that play has tons of benefits for mental and physical health. Taking time for creative play can make you more productive and balanced in other areas of your life.

Benefits of Creative Play

So, why is creative play for adults so important? Here are just a few ways it benefits us:

Reduces Stress

When we engage in creative play, our minds have a chance to relax and unwind. Painting or crafting, for example, has a calming effect that can help reduce stress and improve mood. For me, even just 10 minutes of painting can turn a stressful day around.

Physical Health

Activities like dancing, singing, or crafting require us to move our bodies in different ways, which can improve physical health. Even painting has physical benefits—repetitive brushstrokes can be meditative, lowering blood pressure and promoting relaxation.

Cognitive Health

Play stimulates our brains and keeps them active. Trying new things, like learning an instrument or experimenting with watercolor techniques, challenges our minds and keeps our cognitive abilities sharp.

Social Connections

Creative play can also be a social activity. Joining an art class (or online course!), singing with friends, or sharing your writing with a group builds connections with others. It’s a great way to bond over shared interests and support each other’s creative journeys. (And let’s be honest, sometimes it’s more fun with friends!)

Make Play a Priority

I get it—life is busy. But making time for creative play doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Start by setting aside even just 10-15 minutes a day for something that brings you joy. Treat it like an appointment with yourself that you can’t cancel. Over time, you’ll find that it becomes a natural and important part of your routine!

Create a Play-Friendly Environment

Creating a space that’s conducive to play can make a huge difference. If you love painting, set up a small art station with your supplies ready to go. (For me, having my brushes and paints within arm’s reach makes it way easier to sit down and create.) Find a spot where you feel comfortable, whether that’s a corner of your room or even a little section of your dining table. Just knowing you have a space to create can be inspiring in itself.

For some helpful tips on organizing your art space, take a look at my blog post on that here!

Combine Play with Daily Activities

If finding dedicated time to play feels challenging, try blending it with activities you’re already doing. Doodle in your notebook during meetings, sing along while cooking dinner, or do a little dance when folding laundry. These small moments of play can add a lot of joy to everyday life and make even the most routine tasks feel lighter.

Ready to Dive Deeper? Explore The Art Within

If you’re curious about creative play for adults and want to take it further, check out my Creativity Playbook. For under $50, I give you exercises and tips to bring creativity into your everyday life—no experience required! Whether you’re a total beginner or just looking for a fun way to explore your creative side, this has something for everything.

Ready, Set, Play!

Whether you’re picking up a paintbrush, writing down your thoughts, or even learning to play a stone whistle, creative play for adults invites us to reconnect with ourselves and bring a spark of joy into our daily lives. So, as you go about your week, try adding a little creative play wherever you can. Let go of any rules, embrace the process, and remember that creativity is always there to lift your spirit, whenever you need it.

Before you go, don’t forget to grab my FREE eBook, The Complete Beginner’s Guide to Watercolor and check out my course The Art Within! And hey, let’s stay connected! Follow me on Instagram for more tips and inspiration!