Health Shift Experiment #7: Rediscover Something You Loved as a Child

Children rarely need to be taught how to play. Adults often forget.

This week's experiment is to reconnect with something you genuinely enjoyed before life became so busy. Something you loved as a child.

Why this experiment?

As children, we often explored activities because they were interesting, fun or absorbing—not because they would look good on a CV or improve our health.

Many of those interests are still there, even if they've been buried under years of responsibilities.

The experiment

Take a few minutes to think back to your childhood. What did you love doing?

Drawing? Building things? Reading adventure stories? Cycling? Playing outside? Making music?

Choose one activity that still feels appealing and spend some time doing it this week.

Don't worry about whether you're good at it. That's not the point.

If it's harder than expected

Some people genuinely struggle to remember what they enjoyed as children.

Instead, ask yourself a different question: "When do I completely lose track of time?"

That answer often points in the same direction.

Make it easier

• Look through old photos for ideas.

• Visit a library or hobby shop for inspiration.

• Invite a friend or family member if you'd enjoy doing it together.

• Keep your expectations low. Curiosity is more important than performance.

What to notice

When the week is over, reflect on these questions:

• Did the activity still bring you enjoyment?

• Did time seem to pass differently while you were doing it?

• Is this something you'd like to make space for more often?

Sometimes the things that helped us recharge as children still have something to offer us as adults.