A childhood filled with play has been closely tied to healthy brain development as well as better social-emotional and cognitive skills. Play in adulthood also has a range of benefits, including stress relief and increased creativity. https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2023/09/14/play-mental-health-brain-strategies/ #mentalhealth
Why do we play? Rats can teach us how it improves mental health.

A study revealed activity in a brain region in rats as they played; it may help to develop therapies for children who struggle with the absence of play.

The Washington Post