Take up space & laugh and Play Like a Child

One of the quickest ways I’ve found to shake off heaviness is to let myself laugh and play like a kid again. The last time this happened for me, I was soaked on my bike in a thunderstorm, shoes squelching, glasses fogged up, riding through puddles like a child on purpose.
It was ridiculous, it was joyful, and it completely turned my day around.

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This ties in with wonder, but it’s something slightly different, and for me, even more powerful. When you’re laughing, playing, or just being silly—like a child—it’s almost impossible to feel sad or stuck in negative thoughts. In that moment, you’re simply enjoying life. You’re immersed in joy. And even if it only lasts a few minutes, it’s often powerful enough to shift your whole mindset and brighten your day.

One of the last times this happened to me was honestly a bit ridiculous, but so memorable. It was pouring rain, and I was riding my bike home from yoga. My shoes were completely soaked, my glasses were fogged up, and I was riding through huge puddles that even my mudguards couldn’t protect me from. It was hopeless—and hilarious.

I started laughing. Really laughing. Like a kid splashing in puddles on purpose.

It was absurd, silly, and weirdly joyful. I knew that when I got home, I could take a hot shower, drink something warm, change into cozy clothes, and curl up under a blanket. The moment of playing in the rain, and the warm, comforting reward that followed—brought me so much happiness and peace. It completely turned my day around, which had started off pretty rough.

These kinds of moments don’t have to be big or planned. Sometimes, it’s just about letting go of how things should be and leaning into what is—even if it’s messy, wet, or unexpected.

Laughter and play are powerful regulators of mood and stress. Studies show that laughter reduces cortisol levels, boosts endorphins, and fosters connection to the present moment.

So let yourself be silly. Play in the rain. Make a mess. Laugh out loud. Take up space. These small acts of joy are not trivial. They Are Healing.

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Next, I’ll talk about a different kind of joy practice: taking yourself on a solo date to show yourself love and care.