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IOL News
15 hours ago
- General
- IOL News
Reclaiming joy: the surprising connection between childhood freedom and grown-up happiness
Play, especially the unstructured, imaginative kind, is not just a pastime for children, it's a cornerstone of social, emotional, and cognitive development. Image: Ron Lach/pexels Could the key to a more fulfilled, joyful, and productive adult life lie in something as simple as childhood play? Research suggests so. Play, especially the unstructured, imaginative kind, is not just a pastime for children, it's a cornerstone of social, emotional and cognitive development. But here's the twist: its benefits don't stop at childhood. As adults, we often undervalue play, but embracing it could unlock creativity, reduce stress and even strengthen relationships. The science of play: why it matters Play is more than just fun, it's fundamental. For children, free play fosters growth on every level. Studies reveal that children who engage in unstructured, imaginative play develop stronger social skills, better emotional regulation and sharper cognitive abilities. Video Player is loading. 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Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Play is more than just fun, it's fundamental. For children, free play fosters growth on every level. Image: Ron Lach /pexels When children play, they're not merely passing time; they're learning to navigate the world. Research published in "Pediatrics" also highlights that short play breaks during the school day boost kids' focus and improve learning outcomes. This is because play stimulates mental flexibility and creativity, two essential skills for problem-solving and innovation. Vigorous play activates genes in the brain that promote the growth of new neural connections, according to a study in "Frontiers in Psychology". Imaginative or pretend play, in particular, has been linked to increased cognitive flexibility, empathy and emotional intelligence. These traits don't just make for better learners, they lay the groundwork for resilient, adaptable adults. How play shapes learning Play is a child's most effective teacher. Activities like building blocks, make-believe games or chasing friends on the playground teach problem-solving, teamwork and self-expression. These are the very skills that translate into success in adulthood. Researchers have identified distinct types of play that shape development: Fantasy play: Fosters creativity and problem-solving. Physical play boosts coordination and resilience. Constructive play: Encourages planning and execution through activities like building or crafting. Language play: Develops communication skills through rhymes, jokes, and storytelling. Games with rules: Teach cooperation, patience and strategy. Each type of play builds critical 'soft skills' that are invaluable not just in childhood but throughout life. Studies show that adults who engage in playful activities , experience profound mental and emotional benefits. Image: Edmond Dantes/pexels Why adults need play, too Here's the catch: while play is universally recognised as crucial for children, adults often dismiss it as frivolous. The reality is quite the opposite. Studies show that adults who engage in playful activities, whether it's a game of frisbee, solving puzzles, or simply joking around with friends, experience profound mental and emotional benefits. Play enhances cognitive flexibility, sharpens memory, and reduces stress. It also promotes optimism, which, according to research from the Mayo Clinic, is linked to better health and longer life. Even more fascinating, play can strengthen relationships by signalling approachability and fostering trust, a critical social skill in both personal and professional settings. The consequences of play-deprived adults Unfortunately, many adults abandon play as they age. Why? The pressures of careers, parenting, and societal expectations often label play as 'childish' or unproductive. This mindset is detrimental. A study in the "American Journal of Play" found that adults who neglect play are more prone to burnout, stress, and even depression. Ironically, the very responsibilities that crowd out play, work, relationships and parenting are the areas that benefit most from it. Playful adults are better equipped to handle stress, think creatively, and connect with others. Playfulness is innate. While adults may suppress it, they never truly lose it. Reconnecting with play doesn't require elaborate plans or expensive hobbies. Start small: 1. Rediscover hobbies: Whether it's painting, gardening, or playing an instrument, hobbies reignite creativity. 2. Play with kids: Children have a natural knack for play. Join their games and let their imagination inspire you. 3. Social games: Board games, trivia nights, or sports can strengthen bonds and spark joy. 4. Explore new environments: Travel or even a change of scenery can awaken your sense of wonder and playfulness. Society plays a role, too. Organisations that encourage creativity and play in the workplace see happier, more engaged employees. Likewise, communities that prioritise leisure and recreation foster healthier, more connected populations. The benefits of play are as vast as they are profound. For children, it's the foundation of learning and emotional resilience. For adults, it's a powerful antidote to stress, a tool for creativity, and a gateway to deeper connections. In a culture that glorifies productivity, reclaiming play might feel counterintuitive, but it's exactly what we need. By embracing play, we not only nurture our well-being but also set an example for future generations. As Dr Stuart Brown, founder of the National Institute for Play, famously said: 'The opposite of play is not work, it's depression.'
IOL News
2 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
The metaphor of the lamb and the lion: understanding economic injustice
This article explores the metaphor of the lamb and the lion to illustrate the ongoing economic injustices faced by South Africa, highlighting the paradox of wealth accumulation and poverty. Image: Ron Lach/Pexels The story of the lamb and the lion bears testimony in today's experience of water runs upstream. The poor contribute continuously to the wealth of the rich, and are surprised by the unexplained riches of the rich against the wretchedness of the poverty in which they languish. Water continues to run upstream instead of downstream. Nothing ever trickles, let alone down under the trickledown economy of neoliberals. It only floods upwards away from the poor. When the story of the lamb and the lion was told under kerosene lamp to enthused youth with soot packed nostrils and mealie pap filled gums decades before Milton Friedman market fundamentalism of the Chicago School indeed were prophesy accomplished in their life time. Video Player is loading. 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Next Stay Close ✕ Decades later visited by crimson red gums with a dispersion of isolated lone brown teeth their fortunes of a river flowing up stream was real. For all they saw and witnessed was after years of dirt wages on the mines all they can see are pin striped suits donned by their counterparts who affirm that indeed water flows naturally upstream. As they should contend with their fate decades later, they have no other answer than the fact that the lion was correct all along after all – water flows naturally upstream. The tale is about a lamb that had lost its mother to a marauding lion. Little lamb was downstream drinking water when it got confronted by the raw upstream. You are dirtying the water just like your mother, the ewe. I am thirsty and I need to drink roars the lion. The lamb answers – how can I dirty the water when I am drinking down stream from you. I am just a lamb of yesterday. The lion roars just like the ewe your mother you are doing the same – dirtying my water as the lion charges towards the innocent lamb. This is the relationship the euphemistically referred to developing world when in reality they are constantly underdeveloped by the same lion that claims this developing world is dirtying their water. At no point was this so classically demonstrated than in the Just Energy Transition where South Africa was told in no uncertain terms that it was dirtying the world with its coal and it should stop. The Germans, French, Americans, and British have been drinking and dirtying the water upstream for ages, like the metaphoric lion told the lambs in the south that they are dirtying their water in the north. So obedient lamb, South Africa stood attention and stopped and Komati was killed with other coal fired power stations being continuously decimated merely for their age. De Ruyter the executioner was deployed for the mission. With metaphorical lads listening attentively under kerosene lamp are adult South Africans with crimson red gums and spaced brown spikes loosely dancing in their mouths today suffering from loadshedding driven by economics of Milton Friedman cohorts who are today saying South Africa is dirtying their water despite South Africa being downstream. Blessed is China, Malaysia and others who adopted a more measured approach to the roaring lion and told him in his face that they cannot be dirtying water when they are drinking downstream from those who dirtied years and years world without end. Little did we know that the lion will go back and dirty the water without being reprimanded. Germany ran for coal so is America under Trump. For how long should we stand this abuse of being told that we are dirtying the water when actually at all times we have taken water from downstream. At no time was this more irritating than seeing the 'graveyards' littering the roadside miles on end and the lion roaring that South Africa is dirtying its water through genocide and has decided to own the crosses and South Africa deserves punishment. Blatant lies are what lions are used to against lambs and when they have run out of tricks, they drag us into their stupid gimmicks. Time, we hold our own and respect our own and we should refuse to participate in this silly game of narcissists who have dirtied their water. Leave them to drink it. We should go for a different economic order, not the Milton Friedman Chicago School teaching that has caused the water to flow only upstream against all forces of gravity and the south is even blamed for being impoverished. We cannot continue to be bullied with lies under kerosene lamp as though we are the enthused youth with soot packed nostrils and mealie pap filled gums and live for decades on, visited by crimson red gums with a dispersion of isolated lone brown teeth letting our fortunes be of a river flowing up stream. That reality must be declared as one belonging to morons not us. The lion ate our parents and those before them. It should neither terrorise nor eat us for water we have not dirtied, let it die of its own sins. Africa is not Europe's or America's purgatory. Dr Pali Lehohla is a Professor of Practice at the University of Johannesburg, a Research Associate at Oxford University, and a distinguished Alumni of the University of Ghana. He is the former Statistician-General of South Africa. Dr Pali Lehohla is a Professor of Practice at the University of Johannesburg, among other hats. Image: Supplied
IOL News
4 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
South Africa considers quotas for foreign nationals in the labour market
As unemployment rates soar, the government is considering introducing quotas limiting the number of foreign nationals in various sectors. Image: Ron Lach/Pexels THE government appears not to know the number of foreign nationals in the country's labour market and is considering introducing quotas to limit them from competing for the few available technical and low skilled jobs. The national labour migration policy approved by Cabinet this week, has noted that imposing quotas is a worldwide phenomenon and that European Union member states also implement such measures for managing labour migration from developing countries. In South Africa, the Constitutional Court in 2022 affirmed that the constitutional reservation of the right to trade, occupation or profession to citizens is not uncommon in democracies and that the country has an obligation to protect its citizens' interests. Despite the apex court's judgment, the policy also accepted that a number of Supreme Court of Appeal rulings have found that the total exclusion from work of migrant workers, or particular categories, may amount to the impairment of the constitutional right to human dignity. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ However, the government admitted that such a move would require enabling legal provisions. 'The imposition of quotas to limit the number of foreign nationals from competing for the few technical and low skilled jobs available is being considered,' stated the policy. In addition, it noted that the imposition of quotas to regulate competition between South African and foreign workers in the informal economy for limited available public space and access to markets and other resources needs to be considered. 'This would require enabling legal provisions to this effect at local government level – taking into account the requirement that the imposition of quotas has to be informed by comprehensive statistical evidence with regard to each work sector in the informal economy,' the policy explained. Among other concerns is that the continued employment of foreign nationals in excess of a quota imposed on the sector or occupation, especially those who are permanently employed, is a particularly contentious area as termination of employment under such circumstances may raise labour law procedural considerations in addition to constitutional concerns. Complicating matters further is that South Africa does not currently have adequate data to measure reliable estimates of the stocks and flows of foreign labour in the country, which makes it difficult to measure the impact of migration on the local labour market. 'It is crucial to obtain reliable information on this to inform appropriate policy responses, especially in view of commonly held public perceptions that the labour market participation of foreigners, including asylum seekers, have a negative impact on the South African labour market and on the ability of South Africans to participate in the labour market,' reads the policy. Also approved by Cabinet for submission to Parliament is the Employment Services Amendment Bill providing the policy framework and legal basis to regulate the employment of foreign nationals in businesses while promoting national security and interests. While the existing Employment Services Act has usefully strengthened labour legislation, its current state leaves unaddressed a number of concerns such as the explicit authorisation for private employment agencies to facilitate the recruitment of foreign workers into South Africa and the sourcing and recruitment of foreign workers abroad for employment. The recruitment of South African workers for overseas placement by South African or foreign private employment agencies or the partnering between local and foreign agencies as well as the activities of foreign private employment agencies, locally or foreign-owned private employment agencies online recruitment activities are other areas of concern in existing legislation. The bill also proposes the regulation of labour brokers to prevent worker exploitation such as the provision of cheap labour through undocumented foreign nationals. Trade union federation Cosatu said enabling Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth to set limits on the number of documented migrant workers that can be employed in a workplace and an economic sector, is critical for an economy battling dangerously high and rising unemployment levels of 43.1% overall and 72% for youth.
IOL News
18-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Understanding the surge in South Africa's unemployment
Statistics South Africa had some good news and bad news about joblessness in the country. Image: Ron Lach/Pexels This past week Statistics South Africa (StatsSA) released unemployment figures that showed the level had reached 32.9%. StatsSA's figures showed that job losses were driven by the formal sector, with industries such as trade and construction driving the job loss trend. On the flip side, transport and finance saw net job gains. The official unemployment rate moved upwards because 291 000 people lost their jobs quarter-on-quarter, dropping the employed workforce to 16.8 million as of March this year, Statistics South Africa said on Tuesday. North West University (NWU) Business School economist Professor Raymond Parsons said the rise in unemployment raised another red flag. Parsons said, "The 1% rise in the 1Q 2025 unemployment level again raises another red flag about SA's weak growth performance. With GDP growth forecasts for 2025 having been progressively reduced by various institutions and economists to about 1.5% and below, it is not unexpected that this should now be reflected in higher unemployment levels." "The overall total unemployment level is now where it was a year ago and youth unemployment in particular remains at an unacceptable magnitude. The latest rise in unemployment again confirms that economic growth in SA has been too low for too long," Parsons further added. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ South Africa's growth forecast is expected to be revised downwards next week as Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, is set to deliver his third Budget speech, following the Value Added Tax (VAT) controversy that plagued him all year. With no VAT increase, the minister has been forced to rearrange his budget, with an expected downward revised growth projections for the country, including expenditure. Parsons further said that there is no magic wand to create jobs overnight. "As the disappointing unemployment picture is, the cumulative outcome of seasonal, cyclical and structural factors. But the deteriorating employment outlook nonetheless again reinforces the fact that the third Budget on 21 May must be a growth-driven one. It needs to create a policy environment which promotes economic expansion and boosts investor confidence. The Budget must be dedicated to policies and projects that demonstrably support the GNU's commitment to at least 3% GDP job-rich growth in the medium term," Parsons said. Casey Sprake, Economist, Anchor Capital, told Business Report that it is clear that SA continues to grapple with a relentless rise in unemployment, casting a shadow over the country's recovery efforts. Sprake said, "While recent key reform measures point to a more positive trajectory, this progress has not yet trickled down to many South Africans in the form of job opportunities. Structural challenges, such as a skills gap, labour market rigidities, and the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, have exacerbated unemployment rates, especially among the youth. As the economy expands, the persistent lack of jobs threatens to widen the inequality gap, undermining social stability and eroding the gains of recent economic advancements," "A combination of structural deficiencies, such as a lack of skills, limited access to quality education and training, and inadequate job creation, has resulted in a large portion of the population being unable to find gainful employment. SA's unemployment problem remains particularly acute among the youth, where high levels of unemployment hinder their prospects and exacerbate social inequalities," Sprake further said. The youth (age 15-24) unemployment rate has risen again to 62.8%. "The unemployment rate, according to the expanded definition (which includes those discouraged from seeking work and thus more reflective of the actual number of unemployed South Africans), rose further to 43.1% - concerningly high. This points to longer-term, structural issues within the local economy as it is difficult to reincorporate and entice discouraged work seekers back into the labour force," Sprake added. "Moreover, in the domestic economy, material job creation has only occurred when GDP growth approaches 3% p.a. Thus, the economy is simply not growing at an adequate rate to sustainably boost long-term employment prospects for South Africans. At the end of the day, SA's unemployment problem is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires sustained and coordinated efforts from all sectors of society to create inclusive and sustainable employment opportunities for all South Africans," Sprake further said. BUSINESS REPORT
IOL News
16-05-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Feeling blue? Snack your way to happiness with these 5 mood-boosting foods
Psychology found that on days people ate more fruits and vegetables, they reported higher levels of happiness and mental well-being Image: Ron Lach /pexels May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the many factors that influence our emotional well-being. While therapy, exercise, and sleep are often in the spotlight, one significant factor is often overlooked: what we eat. Numerous studies confirm that food is more than fuel for your body; it's also a powerful tool for your mental health. The connection between diet and mood is undeniable, with certain nutrients, flavours, and even aromas playing a vital role in supporting emotional wellness. The link between food and mood Your diet has a direct impact on your brain, thanks to something called the gut-brain connection. This intricate system of communication between your gut and your brain means that what you eat influences neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which regulate mood and emotions. Recent research from the Journal of Health Psychology found that on days people ate more fruits and vegetables, they reported higher levels of happiness and mental well-being. Even better, the benefits of eating well often carry over into the next day. On the flip side, a diet high in ultra-processed foods, added sugars, and excess red meat has been linked to psychological distress, including anxiety and depression. Certain nutrients are especially beneficial for emotional health. Image: Nathan Cowley /pexels Mood-boosting nutrients Certain nutrients are especially beneficial for emotional health. Foods rich in these nutrients can help reduce stress, combat depression, and improve energy levels: Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds, omega-3s reduce brain inflammation and support cognitive function. Magnesium: Present in leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains, magnesium helps to manage stress and regulate sleep. Folate: Found in lentils, asparagus, and avocados, folate supports serotonin production. Zinc: Present in oysters, pumpkin seeds, and chickpeas, zinc is crucial for brain health and immune function. Flavonoids: Found in berries, tea, and dark chocolate, flavonoids are antioxidants that reduce inflammation and boost brain function. The happy foods you need in your diet If you've been feeling low or stressed, these mood-boosting foods can help support your emotional health: Walnuts: Walnuts are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation in the brain. A study involving 26,000 adults found that those who ate a serving of walnuts daily experienced greater energy, optimism, and interest in activities. Women in the study also reported feeling less hopeless. Fish and Seafood: Certain types of seafood, like salmon, sardines, and mackerel, are rich in omega-3s and have been shown to help prevent depressive disorders. Surprisingly, shellfish such as oysters, mussels, and clams also rank high on the Antidepressant Food Score (AFS) due to their nutrient density. Fermented foods: Yoghurt, kimchi, kefir, and other fermented foods are rich in probiotics, which improve gut health. Since the gut and brain are closely connected, a healthy gut can mean fewer stress signals sent to your brain. Citrus: Simply smelling citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits has been shown to lift your mood. Their bright, zesty flavours are also rich in vitamin C, which combats fatigue and boosts immunity. Dark chocolate: Good news for chocolate lovers, dark chocolate is packed with flavonoids and compounds that trigger the release of endorphins, your brain's feel-good chemicals. Studies show that people who eat dark chocolate are 70% less likely to experience depression symptoms compared to non-chocolate eaters. Foods to avoid for a better mood Just as some foods improve your mood, others can pull it down: Added sugars: High-sugar diets can lead to energy crashes and exacerbate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Ultra-processed foods: Chips, fast food, and sugary cereals can disrupt gut health and increase inflammation. Alcohol: While a glass of wine might feel relaxing, alcohol is a depressant and can worsen mood over time. The saying 'you are what you eat' has never been more relevant. Your diet doesn't just fuel your body; it shapes your mind, emotions, and overall quality of life. By choosing nutrient-rich, whole foods, you're not just feeding your body, you're nurturing your mental health.
