Benefits of leisure and recreation
Although it may not seem like it, in reality, Leisure and Recreation is the largest industry in the world. The benefits of leisure and recreation as an important part of life are easy to see. As an industry, it offers a variety of related jobs and generates billions of dollars in revenue. Parks and recreation workers, community agencies, sports agencies, youth development organizations, non-profit organizations, rehabilitation and hospital agencies, the travel and entertainment industries use and benefit from parks and recreation facilities around the world. . Additional benefits of leisure and recreation include environmental improvements from the expansion of green spaces, health benefits, and personal satisfaction benefits.
There are many civic benefits of leisure and recreation activities. Sports and youth activities offer leadership development for adults and children. Strong communities are built as parks become a center of community life. The benefits extend to all ages, children, youth, young adults, families and seniors. Both care for the environment and well-being through green spaces are enhanced by beauty. This same beauty helps combat stress through the opportunity for gentle exercise and meditation on natural beauty. Nature experiences are available in some locations.
For personal benefits, leisure activities may include:
hobbies
working out
Sports
Gardening
Craft
Health
coping
Family junction
Physical benefits include increased lung capacity from sports participation, as well as lowering serum cholesterol and hypertension, increasing bone mass, strengthening the spine, reducing disease, increasing feelings of well-being, reducing stress hormones, improve attitudes and performance and improve social skills. For child development, playgrounds aid in learning, can keep children off the streets, and improve their confidence. Studies confirm that physical activity can help in the learning process of children. Sports activities enhance the development of large motor skills and social skills. Adult leaders provide positive role models for children. Group sports are well known for promoting social support, networking, and developing friendships.
As if all of the above were not enough to encourage support for leisure and recreation activities, consider the following additional benefits:
Stress management: Mild stress from leisure activity can reduce overall negative stress by contributing to relaxation.
Self-esteem: Especially in children and older people, light exercise, group activities, and hobbies and crafts will help create a positive self-image.
Developing a positive lifestyle: contributing to society, social interaction, developing leaders, being a part of organized sports all encourage good activities for a lifetime.
Personal Satisfaction: Any creative outlet will enhance personal satisfaction. Being part of the leadership brings self-satisfaction, and those who work in recreation areas can take pride in keeping these areas vital and available to others.
Quality of life: Fresh air, sunshine, social interaction, health benefits, and self-esteem will improve quality of life.
Preventive Health: Regular exercise, the physiological benefits of light exercise, and stress reduction are facilitated by having recreational and leisure activities available.
With the future looking to be heading towards a shorter work week and more overtime, it would be wise to support retail outlets and leisure and recreation venues, and it would benefit everyone involved.