Remember when you were once happy, curious, and unafraid to explore and try new things? But between work, bills, and the general stress of adulting, it’s easy to forget what it feels like to be carefree and spontaneous like a kid. But embracing your inner child isn’t just fun — it can have a powerful impact on your mental health. The good news is there are numerous ways to tap into that wonder-filled space. Here are just some of the ways you can get in touch with your inner child. 

Spend time with children

Kids have a way of seeing the world with unbridled enthusiasm, and being around them can help you have that same sense of wonder and curiosity. Take the time to play with them, listen to their stories, and ask them questions about their lives. You might discover that you learn as much from them as they do from you. Plus, who doesn’t love an excuse to play with toys and eat candies?

Get creative

Getting creative is a great way to bring fun and playfulness back into your life. When you let go of the need for perfection and allow yourself to experiment and just express yourself, it’s liberating. Remember: creativity isn’t a competition – it’s about exploration and self-discovery.

Seek out the humor in your daily life

There’s a good reason why they say laughter is the best medicine. Not only does it release endorphins that make us feel good, but it also helps to lower stress levels, improve our mood, and connect us with others. So, the next time you’re feeling down, try to find something to laugh about – a funny TV show, a silly joke, or even a memory that brings a smile. Life is meant to be enjoyed! 

Go out and play

Remember the feeling of pure freedom you got from playing outside as a kid? Adults need that, too, because it can boost creativity, reduce stress, and improve your mood. You get so caught up in responsibilities, leaving little time for fun, and that’s not good for you in the long run. Don’t forget to make time for play, because it may be the best thing you can do for yourself after a long, stressful day. 

Practice gratitude

As we grow up, we forget to appreciate the small things that bring us joy. Taking a few minutes each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for helps foster a more positive outlook on life. You also start to see the world through a more childlike lens, where everything is fresh and exciting. Whether it’s a warm cup of coffee in the morning, a good meal, or your loved one’s smile, a little gratitude goes a long way. 

Try something new

It’s easy to stick to what we know, but taking risks can be incredibly rewarding. Whatever it is, stepping out of your comfort zone can help you grow, learn, and discover new things about yourself. The possibilities are endless, and you must do it at your own pace because the last thing you want is a bumpy journey. Life is a never-ending adventure, so who knows what kind of magic you’ll find?

Let yourself be silly

As we grow older, we tend to lose touch with the silly, carefree side of ourselves that we embraced as kids. But who says being an adult means we can’t still be silly sometimes? Go ahead! Dance like nobody’s watching, or sing your heart out in the shower. Not only will it lighten your mood, but it will also remind you that life doesn’t have to be so serious all the time.

Write a letter to your younger self

Writing a letter to your younger self can be a powerful exercise in reflection and self-compassion. It allows you to look back at the experiences and emotions of your past, while also providing a chance to offer the wisdom and perspective you’ve gained over the years. 

Take it as a reminder that even though you may have grown and changed, that younger version of yourself is still a part of who you are today. So take a moment to reflect on your journey, and don’t forget to celebrate the resilience and creativity of your inner child.