REC Room

We know that play is essential to childhood development, yet we often think that becoming mature means leaving the games behind. In fact, unstructured fun is vital for adults too! Play is about seeking delight, letting your imagination run wild, and enjoying the freedom to roam without a goal or outcome. It should be spontaneous, carefree, and playful.

Play reconnects us with parts of ourselves that may become lost amidst the responsibilities of adulthood, reigniting a sense of joy and curiosity. It also nurtures our imagination, which, like any muscle, can atrophy without regular exercise. Through play, we approach life with renewed excitement, energy, and humor, all of which enhance our life satisfaction and help us navigate challenges with a positive outlook. (Keys, 2024)

Ideas to explore:

-Explore a new skill: such as calligraphy, latte art, crafting charcuterie boards, making clay jewelry, and more.

-Discover a new antique shop.

-Read a book.

-Gardening

-Bicycling

-Traveling

-Going out to dinner

Humans are wired for connection. In the rush of life, we often overlook its importance. Connection is about more than simply being around others; it’s about building meaningful relationships that nourish our sense of belonging. It’s the shared laughter, deep conversations, quiet understanding, and mutual support that bind us. Connection invites us to be present, to listen, and to truly see and be seen.

Connection plays a vital role in fostering a sense of belonging within a community or group, helping to reduce feelings of loneliness. Those who are socially integrated tend to experience greater emotional stability and resilience, as the support and understanding from others provide a foundation for coping with life’s challenges. Connection offers a deeper sense of purpose and meaning, enhancing feelings of contribution and fulfillment, as we recognize the positive impact we have on those around us and the world at large.

Ideas to explore:

-Write a gratitude list for those who've enriched your life.

-Make friends with people you wouldn't normally meet.

-Attend an event on campus and strike up a conversation with someone nearby.

-Take an art class at CASA.

-Join a campus club.

-Reach out to an old friend you haven’t spoken to in years.

We cannot flourish if we only exist for ourselves. Helping others allows us to connect with something greater and make a positive impact on the lives around us. Whether through small acts of kindness or significant contributions, helping others fosters empathy, compassion, and a sense of shared humanity. It creates a sense of purpose, fosters gratitude, and promotes optimism. It shifts our focus to the positives in life, contributing to both personal fulfillment and emotional well-being.

Ideas to explore:

-Take advantage of unexpected opportunities to contribute to others’ happiness.

-Practice acceptance and self-compassion when faced with change.

-Perform three small acts of kindness each day—toward others, the world, and yourself.

-Find a cause, large or small, and commit to contributing to it. This could be donating money, volunteering time, or simply reaching out to someone in need.

Spirituality is not confined to structured religious practices; it’s a deeply personal journey of finding meaning, purpose, and connection. At its core, spirituality invites us to reflect on what we can and cannot control. The only true power we have is over ourselves—our thoughts, feelings, and actions. Everything else lies beyond our grasp. This recognition leads to acceptance, a surrender to the reality that life often unfolds beyond our control, guided by forces greater than ourselves. Spirituality begins when we embrace this truth, fostering peace, resilience, and a deeper connection to the world around us.

Ideas to explore:

-Meditation: Check out Insight timer a free meditation app.

-Prayer: a practice that helps with reflection and connection.

-Art: Use creative expression to explore spiritual connections.

-Mindfulness: Take time to reflect on the present moment and appreciate life as it is.

Learning encourages us to satiate curiosity, expand our horizons, and cultivate new passions. Embrace learning with humility and curiosity—don’t let fear of the unknown hold you back from exploring new subjects, skills, or even life plans. As Corey Keyes suggests, "The only path forward toward flourishing is one that encompasses change, failures, effort, and improvement." (Keys, 2024)

Learning enhances cognitive abilities, boosts problem-solving and critical thinking skills, and increases confidence through mastering new concepts. It fosters adaptability, resilience, and a growth mindset by encouraging the embrace of change and challenges. Learning also provides a sense of accomplishment and purpose, leading to greater life satisfaction, while stimulating curiosity and creativity for a more fulfilling and engaged life.

Ideas to explore:

-Invite humility into your life. Allow yourself to fail and grow from it.

-Take a class purely for personal interest.

-Incorporate learning into your daily routine, even in small doses.

-Engage with people who challenge and inspire you through study groups or workshops.

-Find mentors or become a mentor to reinforce your own learning and help others grow.

-Check out Corey Keyes book on flourishing Languishing: How to Feel Alive Again in a World That Wears Us Down.