Games bar Electric Shuffle has announced the first ever Global Shuffle Day on July 26th, aiming to put both shuffleboard and game time on the map this summer. And there's method in their madness, as embracing your inner child has been found to be good for mind, body and soul.
Pick up that rounders bat, write that short story, and don your best fancy dress. Why? Because playtime is not just for kids. Experts agree that play has all kinds of benefits for grown-ups, from boosting brain power to forging friendships.
Why Adults Need Play
"In adulthood we often see play as silly, frivolous and only for kids. This is to do with societal norms - adults are expected to be serious," says playfulness expert Nicola Whitton, a professor at Durham University. "But if you take a moment to think about some of the things you enjoy, you may find that you spend more time playing than you think. Crosswords? Shouting along to quiz shows? Those are examples of adult play that enrich our lives and genuinely make us happier and healthier."
There are many benefits to playing in adulthood. "Play helps to spark laughter, joy and pleasure. It's rejuvenating and increases energy levels. It can encourage social interaction and build bonds and trust," says Rebecca Hooker, adult play expert and lecturer at Exeter University. "It's a distraction from everyday life and its problems. Play boosts immunity, and lowers anxiety and stress. It's good for self-esteem too."
Couples that do something playful together have been found to be happier and more supportive of each other than those who don't. Play also keeps the brain sharp and engaged. "Playing is learning - by fiddling with something you learn about it," says Rebecca. "And you need to play to learn. A language, for example, is more likely to stick if you have fun doing it."
Overcoming Barriers to Play
Taking part in a game is certainly a lot of fun. So what's stopping us? "We think we're too busy, and we don't give ourselves permission to let go," says Nicola. "There's shyness, lack of confidence, and the perception it will cost money too," adds Rebecca.
The key, experts agree, is to do it in a way that suits you. "By definition you can't be forced to play. If you're not doing it voluntarily then it's not play," says Nicola. "You have to feel comfortable. So have a go and try something. If you like it, great, if you don't then move on to the next thing."
And 15 minutes a day is all it takes. "Research shows 15 minutes of play is enough to make a difference to wellbeing, lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol," says Nicola. With summer in full swing, there has never been a better time to give it a go.
How to Start Playing
If you're not used to playing, doing so can seem odd at first - so give it time. "It takes 66 days to form a habit, so try a 10 week playtime challenge," says Nicola. "Actively give yourself 15 minutes a day to play." Start by finding your inner child. What did you like to do when you were young? It could be making something or dressing up. "This is about seeking out opportunities to play and laugh," says Rebecca. "Think of it as exercise for the soul."
Working out which play type you are will help you find your play style. Types include Collector, Competitor, Creator, Director, Explorer, Joker, Mover, and Storyteller.
Electric Shuffle's Global Shuffle Day
Electric Shuffle is dropping not one, but two brand new games — Studio 21 and The Edge. Designed and developed in-house and road-tested in prototype form by the brand's most loyal guests, they are the first additions to its catalogue since 2021, taking its roster from four games to six. They launch worldwide from July 26th, and across its five UK venues: King's Cross, Canary Wharf, London Bridge, Leeds and Manchester.
Studio 21 is the shuffleboard equivalent of blackjack. Score exactly 21 in as few turns as possible. The Edge tests nerve, precision and the ability to resist the urge to overcook it.
Global Shuffle Day is just the start of a full-blown Summer Shuffle Showdown. From 26th July until 31st August, every group who books a game of shuffleboard will have a shot at more glory and more prizes.
