Why Is Leisure Time Important?
The main reason that leisure time is important is that it gives a person the balance needed to focus on his or her other, more stressful, daily activities. Leisure time relieves boredom and stress and also improves one’s physical and emotional health.
Taking time to focus on enjoyable leisure activities gives a person’s mind a rest from daily stress. This allows him or her to be more focused when the time comes. Physical leisure activities, in addition to rejuvenating the mind also help keep the body healthy. A 2012 study by a team of researchers at the National Cancer Institute showed that leisure activity can increase life span by more than 4 years.
Quality leisure time is also important because it has the ability to enhance one’s communication skills and self-esteem. By engaging in group leisure activities based on shared interests, such as book clubs, craft clubs or exercise groups, a person broadens his or her circle of friends. Group activities also can benefit those who are shy or introverted.
Being involved in a variety of leisure activities is also a good role model for children. It helps to teach them about valuable life skills, such as socially acceptable behavior, communication and relationships with other people.
