S1 Ep 12: Reclaim Your Joy: How Play, Rest and Celebration Heal the Soul

Many of us remember the ease with which we played as children, letting go without a second thought about time, purpose, or judgment. Candice and Shelly share their experiences of reconnecting with play as adults and the challenges that come with it. For Candice, play is about reconnecting with those small, joy-filled activities, like watching a favorite show or losing herself in a sunset. Shelly talks about her struggle to find unstructured joy as an adult but reflects fondly on moments of free-spirited play like swinging or simply walking without a destination.

The beauty of play, as the hosts point out, is that it doesn't require structure or a defined outcome. Whether through art, movement, or nature, embracing play helps us reconnect with our inner child and allows us to feel joy simply for the sake of joy.

In a society that equates productivity with worth, rest is often neglected. Shelly and Candice redefine rest as an intentional act of rejuvenation rather than just a means to an end. Rest, as they explain, is not just about sleep but about allowing the body and mind to be still and recharge. Shelly shares how rest brings her intuition to the forefront, while Candice notes the importance of listening to her body’s cues.

They also discuss the barriers to rest—feelings of laziness or guilt, often ingrained by societal norms. By prioritizing quiet moments and setting aside time for ourselves, we learn to truly relax, open up to intuition, and foster a deeper connection with our physical and emotional needs.

While we easily celebrate others, celebrating our own achievements can feel uncomfortable, even self-indulgent. Candice and Shelly discuss the importance of recognizing our accomplishments and taking pride in the journey, not just the destination. This could be as simple as a solo dinner celebration or a small treat, acknowledging both personal and professional milestones.

Shelly introduces her gratitude practice as a way to bring intentional awareness to the positives in her life, from big accomplishments to the small joys of a sunny day or a delicious meal. This practice reminds us that each day brings moments worthy of celebration, and we should honor them with the same enthusiasm we would for a friend’s success.

Play, rest, and celebration are more than mere indulgences; they are practices that help us maintain a balanced, joy-filled life. Candice and Shelly encourage listeners to explore ways of bringing these practices into their own lives, no matter how small. Whether it’s making time for a favorite hobby, indulging in a restful afternoon, or celebrating a job well done, these moments of joy and gratitude build resilience and nurture our well-being.

We’d love to hear from you! How do you incorporate play, rest, and celebration into your life? Share your thoughts and let’s inspire one another to reclaim the joy that these practices bring.

Thank you for being part of the Healers With Humor community. Remember, you are not alone on this journey. Together, we can navigate the highs and lows and celebrate the beauty of self-discovery and growth.