On April 28, Michigan State University faculty, staff and students are encouraged to escape for a brief “recess” from their daily grind and participate in MSU's first Day of Play event. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the MSU community will have the chance to have fun, release stress and be active together.
Research shows that adults can improve brain function, relieve stress and improve their connection to others by taking part in active play. With people's lives being as busy as they are, few people are able to make time for play.
“We are hoping members of the MSU community will take as little as 10 minutes out of their day to come outside and play their stress away” said Kristin Traskie, fitness program coordinator in the Health Promotion Department of Student Health Services at Olin Health Center.
The Day of Play will take place outdoors at four campus locations: the Brody Square area, Adams Field, the Rock and IM East Fields. Each location will feature a fun obstacle course that can be completed in under 10 minutes. Participants may complete the obstacle course as an individual or in teams of two or four.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to experience some of the stress relieving and energizing activities regularly available on MSU’s campus including pet therapy, chair massages and at some locations, Reiki, a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation.
Some light snacks will also be provided.
Day of Play is part of the MSU Healthy Campus Initiative in collaboration with several campus partners including the Student Health Services Health Promotion Department, the Student Health Services State of Relaxation program, the Office of the Provost, Health4U, MSU Bikes, Recreational Sports and Fitness Services, MSU Food Stores, KIND Snacks and volunteers from Therapy Dogs International.
“Play,” as defined by Oxford Dictionary, is “activity engaged in for enjoyment and recreation” and is an important part of balancing work, studies, and personal lives.
So mark your calendar for 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, April 28 and come play!
Rain day locations are IM East, IM West and IM Circle Buildings.
If you are interested in volunteering at the Day of Play event or would like more information, please contact Kristin Traskie via email.