While I’m definitely in your camp, R, as far as athletics clearing my mind. There are people out there who simply don’t find enjoyment from sports of any kind. Those people may get the same reward you get from running, from reading a book for an hour, or going for a long drive in the country, or watching an inspiring documentary on Netflix.
To the kids comment, Surface Phil, yes. With three “little monsters” (nice one, m0-i) of my own, there’s definitely less time to do what I want to do than there used to be. But, it’s rewarding in many other ways. I’ve been able to volunteer at my oldest son’s school, talking about art, which is something I’ve always enjoyed, and something I don’t get to do very often. Even if it’s a room full of 1st Graders.