🌈 When Someone Moves the Honey (and Why Play Might Be the Answer)

Jodi Heyes

Oct 13, 2025

3 min read

Updated: Aug 28

Who told Aldi they could change the honey bottle?!

I swear it tastes different now — even though it’s technically the same.

It sounds silly, but that tiny change threw me. My brain was like: “Wait… no. That’s not the right bottle.” And I realised — it wasn’t just about honey.

It was about how much we crave familiarity in a world that keeps rearranging things. For many of us (especially those with ADHD, trauma histories, or tender nervous systems), routine isn’t boring — it’s safety. When someone moves the honey, our brains feel it.

🐄 The Week the Cows Saved Me

Last week, I’d been stuck in that weird fog — not sad, but not functioning. The kind of tired that sits in your bones.

So I dragged myself outside. No goals. No “go for a walk.” Just… stand near some grass. That’s when I found the cows. Actual cows you can walk beside. Free serotonin. Slight smell of manure. Worth it.

And somewhere between their gentle chewing and my deep breaths, I remembered something important: We don’t always need to fix the feeling. Sometimes we just need to move our bodies through it — or make something, or laugh, or get a little mud on our shoes.

🧠 The Big Kid Theory

Somewhere along the line, a lot of us learned that being a “good adult” meant being serious, sensible, productive. We swapped our play for planning. Our wonder for worry. Our glitter for guilt.

But here’s the thing: play isn’t childish. It’s regulation. It’s repair.

When we draw, build, craft, dance, or doodle — our brains finally get a break from survival mode. Play tells the nervous system, “You’re safe now. You can breathe.”

That’s why I created the Rainbow Rebels Big Kid Klubhouse — a safe, joy-filled space for grown-ups to reconnect with that part of themselves that still believes in dragons, still loves glue sticks, still wants to make a mess without judgement.

It’s not therapy. It’s not productivity. It’s permission.

🌿 For the Cycle-Breakers and Big-Hearted Rebels

If you grew up being the “sensitive one,” the “fixer,” the “responsible one” — this is for you. If you’ve been unlearning shame, perfectionism, and people-pleasing — this is for you. If you’re learning that rest, joy, and play are not rewards, but requirements — this is for you.

Because the truth is: you were never broken. You just needed a different kind of space to remember who you are underneath the coping.

💫 Join the Big Kid Klubhouse

The Big Kid Klubhouse is coming to Blyth, Consett, and Seaham — spaces where grown-ups can draw, play, move, make, and just be. No pressure. No performance. Just connection, laughter, and colour.

🧩 Register your interest here: https://www.worleysworld.co.uk/event-details/big-kid-klubhouse-grown-up-craft-chat

And if you’re new here — hi, I’m Jodi. I’m a trauma-informed educator, artist, and cycle-breaker. Through Worley’s World, I help families and professionals use play and emotional language to connect. Through Rainbow Rebels, I help adults remember how to feel safe enough to play again.

You belong here. Glitter and all. 🌈

🌟 The Importance of Play in Adulthood

Play is not just for children. It is essential for adults too. Engaging in playful activities can significantly enhance mental well-being. It allows us to express ourselves freely and reconnect with our inner child.

When we play, we reduce stress and anxiety. We create a safe space where we can explore our emotions without judgement. This is crucial for healing and personal growth.

In a society that often prioritises productivity over well-being, it’s vital to reclaim our right to play. It’s not a waste of time; it’s an investment in our mental health.

🌈 Embracing Your Inner Child

To embrace your inner child, start by identifying activities that bring you joy. It could be painting, dancing, or simply playing a game. Allow yourself to indulge in these activities without guilt.

Remember, it’s okay to take a break from adult responsibilities. In fact, it’s necessary. By nurturing your playful side, you’ll find a renewed sense of energy and creativity.

So, go ahead and make a mess. Splash some paint. Dance like nobody's watching. Your inner child will thank you.