Embracing Kidulting: Rediscovering Joy in Adult Life
Have you ever found yourself curled up in bed with a beloved stuffed animal from your childhood, or perhaps engrossed in a card game with friends on a lazy Sunday afternoon? If so, you’re not alone. Welcome to the world of “kidulting,” where adults indulge in activities typically associated with childhood.
Kidulting encompasses a range of behaviors, from snuggling with stuffed animals to playing with toys and collecting cards. Surprisingly, recent surveys reveal that this trend is more prevalent than one might think. In fact, a remarkable 4 in 10 American adults admit to sleeping with stuffed animals, highlighting the widespread appeal of this phenomenon.
One prime example of the kidulting movement is the growing popularity of Squishmallows, soft and squishy plush toys that have captured the hearts of many. Astonishingly, 65% of Squishmallows buyers fall within the age range of 18 to 24 years old, challenging the notion that such indulgences are reserved solely for children.
But what exactly draws adults to kidulting? Beyond the simple joy of engaging in nostalgic activities, there are deeper psychological benefits at play. Kidulting has been found to trigger the release of dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. By revisiting activities from our youth, we can experience a sense of comfort and contentment that can be profoundly therapeutic.
Clinical psychologist Dr. Manly aptly describes the allure of kidulting: “It gives us the opportunity to return, if only for a few moments or hours, to simpler times that brought us joy.” In today’s fast-paced world, filled with responsibilities and stressors, the act of embracing our inner child can serve as a form of self-care, allowing us to momentarily escape the pressures of adulthood.
So, the next time you find yourself reaching for that beloved stuffed animal or dusting off a deck of cards, don’t hesitate to indulge in a bit of kidulting. Embrace the nostalgia, revel in the joy, and give yourself permission to rediscover the magic of childhood in the midst of adult life. After all, in a world that often feels too serious, a little dose of whimsy can go a long way.
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