Kern Legacy Health Plan | A Legacy of Good Health | Fall 2021

Although your hopscotch days are probably far behind you, there’s plenty to be gained by channeling your inner child when it comes to play. That’s right: Playtime is for grownups, too, and it’s not only fun but actually good for you. From being playful with a partner to cuddling a kitten to joking with your favorite jokesters, play is pretty much anything that’s done just for joy. The benefits of being amused, according to experts, include decreased stress and increased relaxation. And you know what they say about all work and no play. Goof- ing off may even help you get more done. That’s because play may stimulate your creativity and problem-solving skills, perhaps helping you to bust through a mental block and complete an important project. Adults at play Try these tricks to fit playtime into your busy day: Make work breaks playdates. Kick a football with a co-worker or practice some yo-yoing tricks. Play with a pet after work. Maybe that’s fetch with your dog or a string-and-toy game with your cat. Enjoy a freewheeling, weekend bike ride. As you pedal away, leave your cares behind and enjoy the soft wind in your face. Play an evening board game. Get the whole family to join you. Be spontaneous with your partner. Pen a funny love poem. Lie on a blanket in the grass and try to spot animal shapes in the clouds. Do something you enjoyed as a kid. Build a model muscle car or buy a coloring book for adults. Enlist a pro. Play with your kids, grandkids, nephews or nieces. Take a backyard journey to a fanciful castle or run around a park. Source: HelpGuide It’s hard to live a stress-free life. But too much stress isn’t good for your health or happiness. Over time, it may cause you to lose sleep, have headaches or be depressed. It can make you irritable and angry. And it can raise your risk for serious illnesses, such as high blood pressure and heart disease. Stress less If stress is a constant companion these days, give the following six stress-busters a try: 1 Ask yourself, “Am I taking on too much?” If family or work responsibilities are spilling off your plate, decide which tasks can wait. And say no to new requests if you have more than you can handle. 2 Take charge—when you can. You can’t control all the stressors in your life. Focus on changing the ones you can. If you’re prone to procrastinating, for instance, break big projects into smaller tasks. If talking to a rela- tive makes you tense, limit how much and how often you talk. 3 Nurture your body. Exercise releases mood-lifting endorphins. Eating nutritious foods, getting enough sleep, and avoiding alcohol and too much caffeine can also help you cope. 4 Bring on the calm. Frazzled by a deadline? Close your eyes and sit quietly for a few minutes. Stuck in traffic? Turn on upbeat music to tune out tension. Exhausted after a long day at work? Take a warm shower to help ease tense muscles. 5 Recharge your sense of joy. Even if your schedule seems maxed- out, try to squeeze in time for activities you enjoy. Maybe that’s working on a hobby, seeing a movie or having dinner with a friend. 6 Tell a good listener. Everyone has a bad day—and it may help to talk about yours with loved ones or trusted friends. You’ll face the next day a bit stronger with their love and support. Sources: HelpGuide; National Institute of Mental Health 6 steps to soothe stress If your stress is overwhelming, mental health professionals can help. Your Employee Assistance Program is always here to support yo u. Call 844-416-6386 or go to anthemeap.com (company cod e: KER N ). You’re never too old to play Playtime reduces stress, promotes creativity