10 Fun Ways to Release Your Inner Child

Kids have it all figured out, man. They're honest, full of energy, and unashamedly themselves. We start out as these lovely little human beings, and somehow morph into this strange thing called an adult. I believe that the more we can tap into our inner childishness, the better. It makes us feel free, it connects us to ourselves. It reminds us of a simpler time, and it forces us enjoy life a little bit more.

1. Go outside
Remember when we were young and 90% of our time was spent outside? I grew up playing hopskotch and rollerblading and playing in the sprinklers until it got dark. Being inside was like a sin, and to this day nothing makes me feel more alive than spending all day out in the fresh air.

2. Play games
Kids take any opportunity they can get to play games; board games, arcade games, video games, etc. Why don't we? Games are just plain fun, and in my opinion, we need to make more time for them.

3. Go to the park
I light up like a child every time I get to go to a park. The swings are my personal favorite. The novelty of parks seems to wear off as we get older. The next time you're there, enjoy it!

4. Hang out with kids
Being around children forces you to use your imagination, be a little crazy, and generally expel whatever energy you have left after all of those adult obligations.

5. Play dress up
I love Halloween, and reason #1 is that I get to dress up. Kids play dress up on the daily. Maybe it becomes less socially acceptable as we get older, but that doesn't mean we can't take advantage of every possible opportunity!

6. Try new things
Rarely does a child turn down the opportunity to try something new. They are adventure seekers. They want to see the world and experience it all. It seems that somewhere along the line we become a little more reserved. Next time you see something that you've never done before, just do it man!

7. Go barefoot
Go outside barefoot, and I guarantee you will flashback to your childhood. Something about being barefoot is incredibly liberating. Connect your body with the earth. Feel the sand, dirt, cement, grass, etc. underneath your toes. Run around, splash some water, kick the sand up, or play some hopskotch! ;)

8. Display your talents

I'll tell ya, if a kid has a talent, you'll know about it. They have no shame in breaking out in song or dance, or showing you their magic trick. As we get older we start to worry about being judged. We refrain from showing our talents because we're worried about what other people may think. Talent should not be wasted. You know the drill, sing like no one is listening, dance like no one's watching, etc etc. 

9. Follow your dreams

As adults we tend to squash our dreams like helpless little bugs on hardwood. We have a list full of things we would love to do, but we pretend like we don't have the time or resources to do them. Kids believe with their full hearts that they will get to do everything they have ever wanted to. Don't give up on those things that you have always wanted to do. 

10. Reminisce with movies/TV shows

I actually really adore watching shows and movies that were my favorites as a child. Watching Step by Step or Boy Meets World takes me back to grade school when my brother and I would watch them every day when we got home from school. Disney movies are always classic as well. While you're at it, listen to some old school music too!

So go on, embrace your inner child. As they say, age is nothing but a number.