Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/975060
32 WAC Magazine | wac.net ere's no hard and fast definition of play, but as long as you're doing something just for the fun of it, you're prob- ably playing. at might seem like a foreign concept in a world where being busy is a hallmark of productivity. But without play, some of that hard work may go to waste. Dr. Stuart Brown, a psychiatrist and founder of the National Institute for Play, says that active play builds complex and skilled individuals who experience more rewarding social interactions, curiosity, and innovation in their day-to-day lives. And science backs him up. Dr. Brown's research shows that those who don't play are oen depressed and ultimately less creative when it comes to tackling problems at the office. So it turns out there is some truth to the old adage: "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy." is spring and summer, take a break from work and make time for fun—we think you'll see some very real benefits. at's certainly been the case for WAC Chief Financial Officer Paul Lowber. With his crisp blue shirt, tastefully patterned tie, and so-spoken demeanor, Paul might not strike you as the playful type. Taxes and accounting don't exactly scream "fun" for most people. But crunching numbers isn't what first brought Paul to the WAC. It was basketball. Paul joined the WAC in 1997 for the purpose of playing in the Club basketball league. At the time, he was working as vice president and controller at Safeco Corp. in the University District and wanted a way to keep playing his favorite sport. PARK ADVENTURES Summer is Seattle's best-kept secret. When you're not enjoying a refreshing dip in the 6th Floor pool or a cool drink in Hagerty's, take a trip outside. We're near some of Seattle's most beautiful outdoor spaces. Check out these parks for easy sunny-day escapes. Madrona Park Beach 853 Lake Washington Blvd.; 3.5 miles from the Club The perfect place for a swim. Madrona Park Beach features two docks, lifeguarded swim area, diving board, and striking views of Mount Rainier. Insider tip: Madrona offers free swim lessons at select times. Magnuson Park 7400 Sand Point Way NE; 7.5 miles from the Club Magnuson boasts over 4 miles of walking trails, public art, sports fields, and a number of repurposed airplane hangars. Insider tip: Pack your pup. Magnuson is home to an 8.6-acre off-leash area that includes winding trails and Lake Washington access. Discovery Park 3801 Discovery Park Blvd.; 6 miles from the Club Soak in Puget Sound views at Discovery Park. The park has two tidal beaches, meadowlands, sheer sea cliffs, and more. Insider tip: The Discovery Park Environmental Learning Center issues first-come, first-served beach parking permits for those who can't walk to the shore on their own.