There’s a distinction I need to make here. Though related these two ideas are different. One is an activity and the other an attitude. Certainly if you are playing with something/someone it’ll probably lead to a sense of playfulness. Conversely if you have a silly or whimsical frame of mind you’re likely to want to play something.
Of these two I find playfulness more interesting. I am intrigued by Playfulness because it’s not just for having fun. In my mind as well as some other pioneers, it can be a way of life.
Playful people tend to be more connected, creative, lively, positive, flexible, and cope better than others. Not only is this my intuition, in my research I have found a number of wise/learned folks who concur.
So next time you have a choice between a serious reaction or a playful one try the playful on for size.
Best wishes, Steve. ☺
The Playful Life 