You’ve heard it before: All work and no play make Johnny a dull boy. That’s because play is more than just a good time. It actually engages parts of the brain needed for certain cognitive, social, physical and emotional abilities, while giving rest to our overused “work” brains. If you can’t afford to play hooky from your job, Shopperati’s evening and weekend experts urge you to take up at least one recreational pastime this spring. Here are some suggestions and some gear to go with them. Softball: Great to play with coworkers and friends as it heightens your enjoyment of the outdoors and sharpens the senses. If you haven’t played in years, invest in a nice new game-improving glove such as the DeMarini Diablo Slow Pitch 13-incher ($49.99). The Sorbothane shock-absorbing palm cushions the pain of fast, hard throws. Golf: Rolling green courses, birdsong, plenty of walking and ample opportunities to work on eye-body coordination. If you get hooked, pick up a set of handsome Wilson Golf Neoprene Iron Covers ($9.99) and keep your irons unscratched. While you’re at it, we also recommend the Samsonite Trunk Golf Organizer ($29.99), which has pockets and compartments to keep your golf shoes, grips, jacket, gloves and more stowed neatly in your car trunk. Biking: Good for the heart, the leg muscles, the circulation - and good for the planet as an alternative to driving. You can even get one that folds up inside a travel bag, for taking on a plane, from Bike Friday. While you’re splurging, treat yourself to the award-winning CamelBAK Mayhem 100-ounce Hydration Pack ($90) and say goodbye to reaching for a bottle while riding. This one has an outer mesh pocket for holding gear, and it supplies more than three hours of water. Camping: The opposite of sleeping indoors close to the TV and computer, on a soft bed you know so well you don’t even notice you’re worrying again. Look at the stars and moon instead! Listen to the night! Sleep better than ever inside Columbia’s Bugaboo Family Dome Tent ($128.28 plus free shipping). It’s large enough for up to five people and features a remote control light, skylights and a venting system for fresh air all night. Plan to play, and you’ll work better when you get back.