First published 17 January 2026

Here’s a question: when was the last time you had an total fit of the giggles over something completely daft?

If you’re struggling to remember, you’re not alone.

In our latest ‘Therapists in Conversation’ episode, we explored why so many of us have inadvertently shut down our capacity for play – and what it’s costing us. I don’t often use the term ‘inner child’ (not a big fan!), but I am absolutely passionate about what I know as the ‘play index’.  It’s one of the most vital, and most overlooked, aspects of our mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing.From a Health Kinesiology perspective, when we’re stuck in rigid, ‘grown up’ energy, our entire system reflects it.  The meridians become stagnant, our heart chakra closes down, and we literally hold tension in our bodies.

We were never meant to be this serious all the time.

I know the pressure to ‘grow up’ well. After many years in banking, where my naturally bubbly personality was seen as something to be squashed, I’ve learned first hand what happens when we suppress our joy to fit someone else’s expectations (hint – I was miserable).

Even when my work was excellent, the message was clear: be more serious.  There was no room for fun, and honestly?  That environment was suffocating. (Disclaimer: this is not me telling you to quit your job if you aren’t allowed to have fun there!!!)

But here’s what I’ve discovered in my work with clients: we do our best healing, and our best learning, when we’re in a relaxed, playful state.  When we allow ourselves to enjoy the process, our bodies respond differently.  We’re not forcing change; we’re inviting it in with curiosity and lightness.

Society has conditioned us to believe that play is frivolous, something to be relegated to ‘defined times’ like a child’s break period. 

But what if play isn’t a luxury? What if it’s actually essential to our wellbeing?

I often ‘prescribe’ finding something that makes a client giggle.

It might sound simple (and it can be), but laughter is genuinely therapeutic.  It shifts energy, releases tension, and reminds us that life doesn’t have to be quite so heavy all the time.

Challenge time:

What would happen if you gave yourself permission to play?

To get on the floor with your pet, to do something utterly daft, to prioritise joy alongside all your responsibilities?

Life is far too short to be dull and miserable.

Your body, your energy system, and your spirit are all waiting for you to lighten up (your choice is whether that is by a bit or by a lot!)

If you’re ready to increase your play index and put yourself first in a way that feels joyful rather than dutiful, let’s talk.

In our 1:1 sessions, we work with your body’s wisdom to clear what’s blocking your natural joy and vitality.

Ready to find your giggle again?  Book a discovery call.

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If you were looking for an update on all last week – well the car failed it’s MOT and is still being worked on and I haven’t gotten any further forward with the fridge freezer – sensing this could be an ongoing saga! Don’t worry though, I promise not to bore you with it!

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Want to hear the full conversation about embracing your inner child? Catch Episode 68 here. (if you are good with cookies, click below to watch on the page, otherwise, click the previous link and watch directly on YouTube)