Why Adults Need Play Too (and How Painting Helps)

When was the last time you did something just for fun—not to tick it off a list, not to be productive, not even to get better at it—just for the sheer joy of doing it?

As kids, we play without thinking. We draw with wild colours, build imaginary worlds, and laugh at things that make no sense at all. But somewhere along the way, play gets replaced with productivity. Our days fill up with to-dos, meetings, emails, and responsibilities. And slowly, quietly, that sense of lightness starts to fade.

But here’s the thing: adults need play too.

Play isn’t just for kids

Play is where imagination lives. It’s how we relax, reset, and reconnect with ourselves and others. It’s been shown to reduce stress, boost creativity, and improve mental health. It helps us let go of perfectionism and embrace the moment. And the best part? It doesn’t need to be complicated.

Play can be as simple as putting paint to canvas without worrying how it’ll turn out. Just picking up a brush and seeing where it goes.

That’s why we love painting so much

Painting brings us into the moment. It asks nothing from us except to show up and give it a go. There’s no right or wrong—just colour, movement, music, maybe a glass of something nice, and the chance to switch off from the outside world for a while.

We see it at every Paint Club event: that moment when people stop overthinking and start enjoying. The laughter, the quiet focus, the surprise at what they’ve created. That’s play in action. That’s why we do what we do.

Having some fun painting highland cows at The Ffolkes pub in Kings Lynn.

It’s not about being “good”

One of the biggest blockers to play as adults is the fear of not being good at something. But the beauty of creative play is—it doesn’t matter. You don’t have to be an artist. You don’t need fancy tools. You just need to give yourself permission to try.

At our sessions, we often remind people: “It’s not about the end result—it’s about the process.” And when you let go of the outcome, that’s when the real magic happens.

A gentle reminder...

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or just in need of a lift, try making space for a little creative play. Grab some paints, get messy, let go of the ‘shoulds’ for an hour. Or come along to one of our events—we’ll be there to guide you, support you, and celebrate whatever you create.

Because joy matters. And adults absolutely deserve to play too.