Kidulting is a growing trend that has gained popularity, especially during the pandemic, as people seek ways to reduce stress and enhance their mental well-being. The concept revolves around engaging in activities or behaviors associated with childhood, such as playing games, watching cartoons, or using coloring books. By embracing nostalgia and reconnecting with their inner child, individuals can find moments of relaxation, joy, and creativity.
According to Dr. Arijit Bose, a consultant psychiatrist at NH RN Tagore Hospital in Kolkata, engaging in kidulting activities can have positive effects on mental health. These activities provide a sense of nostalgia and allow individuals to momentarily escape the responsibilities and pressures of adulthood. It offers a carefree moment and can alleviate stress, leading to improved mental well-being.
However, it is essential to strike a balance between indulging in childlike activities and fulfilling adult obligations. Excessive indulgence in kidulting can lead to escapism and neglect of adult responsibilities. Dr. Bose emphasizes the need for individuals to maintain a healthy balance and not let kidulting interfere with their daily adult responsibilities. Some may also experience feelings of guilt or societal judgment when participating in kidulting, which can potentially impact their mental well-being.
Kidulting goes beyond being just a trend; it draws inspiration from the psychology of nostalgia and the concept of inner-child work, both of which are integral to therapeutic practices. It serves as a form of therapy by allowing adults to nurture aspects of themselves that may have been suppressed or lost during the process of growing up. It invites individuals to mend their relationship with their inner child and reclaim fragments of their previous identities.
Jaisleen Kaur, an Image Consultant, Soft Skills Trainer & Life Coach in Dehradun, highlights the positive effects of kidulting on mental health and overall well-being. The act of kidulting acts as a valuable therapeutic technique.
For those interested in practicing kidulting, Dr. Rahul Rai Kakkar, a senior consultant psychiatrist at Narayana Superspeciality Hospital in Gurugram, suggests the following ways to explore this trend:
– Engage in activities from your childhood, such as playing video games, board games, or puzzle-solving.
– Rediscover your love for cartoons and animated movies. Watch them to experience a sense of nostalgia and lightheartedness.
– Embrace creative outlets like coloring books, drawing, or crafting.
– Build LEGO sets or engage in other construction activities to reconnect with your inner child.
By following these suggestions, individuals can embody the spirit of kidulting and enjoy the mental health benefits it provides. However, it is crucial to maintain a healthy balance and not let kidulting activities interfere with adult responsibilities.
As more people recognize the value of kidulting for mental well-being, this trend is likely to continue growing. It offers an escape from the pressures of modern life and provides individuals with moments of joy, relaxation, and creativity. So, indulge in kidulting activities, and let your inner child flourish!
