Regulating our systems: Finding moments of play

As I was pondering what to share this month, I took a step back.

Many of us may be filled with heaviness, and division within, and without. Today, I pondered...what is the change I can uniquely bring to this moment?

So today, I am resharing photos and a short video of me in moments of play, from one of the more popular newsletter articles in the past year.

One of the pictures is me giving an ALG workshop (above), flowing in the moment, connecting with diverse participants to build more positive, respectful relations across difference. It is indeed a moment of play, and joy.

Those of you who know me know that intentional (and educational) play is integrated into all ALG workshops, including when working on thorny topics like building a culture of respect and anti-harassment. It is part and parcel of the first "R" of the ALG 4Rs approach. We also integrate experiential activities to embody relational skills in action. For the skeptics out there, yes, you can have fun while engaging in serious topics!

I learned much on the power of play during my time leading a children's human rights education program focused on building inclusive relations. I observed how adults themselves benefited from the same activities that we facilitated with the children. Research has shown how play can increase our creative minds, cultivating relational security, freeing us to find new ways of engaging across difference. It has so much power that organizations have developed play toolkits and models for children during crises.

What are your moments of play?

Can you allow yourself this moment? Can you do this while acknowledging that some have more access to play than others?

Remember that pausing for these moments in your own life will help refuel your DEI/social justice work. It has the power to improve relations within your team, your work and beyond.

Feel free to share your moments of play in the comments below!

I invite you to check out more on ALG services and new service bundles here.

Until we meet, keep on playing, when and however you can, and take care of yourselves, and each other.