Q&A: How Leisure Activities Enhance Personal and Societal Health

As summer approaches, bringing warmer weather and numerous outdoor recreation opportunities, questions arise about the role of leisure in our health and community well-being. Dr. John Dattilo, a scholar with over four decades in recreation, emphasizes that leisure is more than just free time — it is a vital component for a fulfilling and healthy life.

Leisure involves engaging in recreational activities that provide positive, meaningful experiences, helping individuals feel authentic and present. Unlike mere free time, which can sometimes lead to boredom or loneliness, leisure actively reduces these negative feelings by fostering engagement, either alone or with others, in a way that is immersive and satisfying.

Research indicates that leisure contributes significantly to health outcomes, promoting mental and physical well-being. Activities that induce psychological flow — where focus and enjoyment align — lead to decreased loneliness and enhanced social inclusion. Studies also show strong links between leisure, happiness, a sense of purpose, and overall health, including better cardiovascular health and lower mortality risk. Mental health benefits include reduced depression rates and increased resilience.

On a societal level, leisure fosters social connections and inclusivity, creating a better society through community bonding. Engaging in leisure together allows for open interaction, shared experiences, and mutual gratitude across generations, from youth to elders. It demonstrates that when people participate collectively, everyone benefits, making society more cohesive.

However, access to leisure is not equal. Many face barriers such as income, health issues, or environmental limitations, especially in urban settings lacking natural spaces. Dr. Dattilo advocates for societal efforts to provide leisure opportunities for all, emphasizing that leisure is essential for quality of life once basic needs are met.

Incorporating leisure into daily routines and emphasizing mindfulness can help individuals experience more leisure and its benefits. Focusing on the present fosters gratitude and joy, which are fundamental to leisure and happiness. Ultimately, promoting inclusive leisure opportunities is not only a matter of individual health but also a societal investment in overall well-being.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-qa-leisure-healthier-individuals-society.html