Words by Melissa Conway, PR & Social Media Executive at David Lloyd Clubs
In the middle of some recent life changes, I realised something unexpected: finding peace didn’t come from trying harder or holding it all together. It came from letting go. Reconnecting with my playful nature reminded me that life doesn’t have to feel so heavy.
Letting myself be soft, silly, even a little whimsical, has felt like a breath of fresh air. It’s about more than taking a break; it’s about reclaiming a way of seeing the world that most of us abandoned somewhere along the way.
But why is rediscovering wonder so important? Wonder has a unique way of connecting us to the present moment. Studies show it can boost our mental health and help us feel more grounded and joyful. It’s about seeing the extraordinary in the ordinary — a state of mind that so many of us lose amidst responsibilities and routines.
So, what exactly is a sense of wonder? To me, it’s the feeling of being so fully present that you notice something new or see the world with fresh eyes. It’s when something makes you pause and smile, the curiosity that compels you to explore, and the lightness that comes from simple, authentic joy. The last time I felt it? Playing in the park with my little sister a few weeks ago.
5 ways to rediscover a sense of childlike wonder as an adult
How do we get our sense of wonder back? It starts with letting go of what we should be and creating space for the parts of ourselves we might have left behind.
1. Creative gatherings with friends
For me, this looks like themed nights with friends — gathering once a month to either paint, collage or make jewellery. None of us are professional artists; we just love to laugh and be creative. It’s therapeutic, stress-relieving and reminds us of the simple joy of doing something fun, just like we did in school.
2. Dressing for fun
On other days, a sense of wonder shows up in simpler ways. Dressing in clothes that make me happy, wearing bright shoes just because they bring me joy or mixing up patterns. It mirrors diving into a dress-up box from childhood. Instead of practicality, I look for clothes that feel exciting, even if they’re unconventional. Because why did we ever stop dressing just for the fun of it?
3. Spending time in nature
Next time you’re walking somewhere, make time to appreciate the power of nature. Take your headphones out, notice the trees, feel the breeze or look for tiny details you might normally overlook. There’s so much to see, even in the places we pass through daily.
4. New experiences
Rediscovering wonder can also come from trying new things—whether it’s a workshop, a special experience, or a product that sparks curiosity and creativity. There are so many events at David Lloyd Clubs that can ignite your imagination.
For example many of our clubs have the regular Book Club held each month, a great way to meet new people and escape momentarily. If you have children, try out the Rebels classes; being with your child takes out the seriousness as it’s less goal orientated. You’re not trying to beat your son’s PB, you’re just having fun together and being silly.
5. Letting go to let more in
The people I want to talk to in a room are the ones who are unapologetically themselves — who speak with passion and who seem to have held onto the childlike spark that makes life vivid.
It’s easy for us to dampen our enthusiasm, as it can feel vulnerable, like it’s too much. “It’s cooler to care less than to care deeply,” but isn’t it a shame to hold back who we are out of fear that others won’t appreciate it?
In conclusion
Reclaiming whimsy and play isn’t just about being silly; it’s about remembering that the real beauty of life might just be in the small, unexpected moments.
What could you do today to rediscover your sense of wonder?
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