Therapeutic Book Club: "Playful Intelligence" by Dr. Anthony T. DeBenedet

For our next meeting of the Therapeutic Book Club, we'll discuss "Playful Intelligence: The Power of Living Lightly in a Serious World" by Dr. Anthony T. DeBenedet.

From Goodreads: Today, we live in a taxing world. The endless pressure to keep up with our responsibilities and the daily headlines swarming around us can be overwhelming. DeBenedet’s work comes at a time when stress, uncertainty, and intensity levels are high. Playful Intelligence shows adults that there is a way to live lighter―and smarter―as we navigate the seriousness of adulthood. It’s not about taking life less seriously; it’s about taking ourselves less seriously.

The book’s core chapters are devoted to exploring the effects and benefits of five playful qualities: imagination, sociability, humor, spontaneity, and wonder. By examining playfulness as a sum of its parts, readers will gain a working awareness of its power and be able to apply playful principles to their own lives, bringing the magic of childhood back into their day-to-day existence. The book also offers practical suggestions on how to make life more playful in nature.

The Therapeutic Book Club is aimed at self-discovery and self-reflection by exploring relevant themes and connecting with others in a safe environment. The group decides by vote which book will be read for the next meeting. The books are therapeutic in nature covering themes such as childhood trauma, anxiety, stress management and healthy relationships.

We are an open and non-judgemental group that welcomes a diversity of ideas and perspectives. This is also an inclusive event open to all genders.

Previous books we have read and discussed include Mating in Captivity: Reconciling the Erotic and the Domestic by Esther Perel, and The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness, and Healing in a Toxic Culture by Gabor Maté.

There is no charge for attendance but we recommend people purchase at least one drink at the venue. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Anita (Niah) Sommers or Kat LeRoy.