The LEGO Effect: Unlocking the Power of Play to Transform Mental Health
As we all know, living with chronic illness and chronic pain can be incredibly stressful and traumatic. But what if I told you that something as simple as playing with LEGO bricks could help reduce stress and even combat trauma?
According to the article, LEGO is being used as a form of therapy to help individuals, especially children, cope with stress, anxiety, and even PTSD. The idea is that the repetitive motion of building with LEGO bricks can be meditative, helping to calm the mind and reduce stress levels. Additionally, the act of creating something with LEGO bricks can give individuals a sense of control and accomplishment, which can be especially important for those who feel overwhelmed by their circumstances.
The article highlights several examples of how LEGO is being used in therapy settings, including:
A therapist who uses LEGO to help children process and deal with traumatic experiences
A hospital that uses LEGO to help patients cope with anxiety and stress while undergoing treatment
A non-profit organization that uses LEGO to help veterans with PTSD
As I read this article, I couldn't help but think back to when my son first discovered LEGO as a toddler. He was completely obsessed, and I have to admit, I was too! I had never played with LEGO as a child - in fact, I was told that LEGO was a "boy's toy" and that I should play with dolls instead. But watching my son build and create with LEGO bricks sparked something in me. I loved the way the pieces fit together, the colors, the textures... it was all so calming and satisfying. As my son grew older, his LEGO skills far surpassed mine, and now as a teenager, he can whip up incredible builds in no time. But I've continued to enjoy LEGO, not just because it's a fun activity to do with my son, but also because it speaks to my OCD tendencies - I find the calm, orderly process of building with LEGO bricks to be incredibly soothing.
What I love about this article is that it highlights the importance of play and creativity in our lives, even as adults. As someone who lives with chronic illness and chronic pain, I know how easy it is to get caught up in our symptoms and treatments. But this article reminds us that there are simple, accessible ways to reduce stress and improve our mental health.
I hope you all find this article as inspiring as I do! Have any of you ever used LEGO or other forms of play to cope with stress or trauma? I'd love to hear about your experiences.
