Too often, we focus on some future time when we will be able to really enjoy life. “When I retire …” “When I get the kids in school …” “When I get enough money …” In the meantime, our life balance, our well-being and ultimately even our happiness can pass us by.
Stop for a moment, and think about the special memories in your life. Chances are, many of them are linked in some way to recreation. That is, to sports and fitness, arts and culture, or nature and the outdoors.
This article describes what recreation is (in the Alberta context) and outlines the many benefits of making recreation a priority in your life.
Recreation in Alberta
The Interprovincial Sport and Recreation Council defines recreation as “all those things that a person or group chooses to do in order to make their leisure time more interesting, more enjoyable and more personally satisfying.”
For Albertans, recreation often takes the form of walking for pleasure, gardening and cultural activities such as visiting museums or going to live theatre. According to the 2004 Alberta Recreation Survey, other popular activities include:
- doing a craft or hobby
- attending sports events
- bicycling
- attending fairs and festivals
- swimming
- playing video, computer or electronic games
- overnight camping
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Benefits of Recreation
Recreation can meet many needs. Some recreational pursuits help you get fit and be more active. Others (or the same ones) provide a way to spend time with family, make new friends and connect with the community.
Another great benefit can be skill-building and personal growth, for example, when taking part in activities that provide opportunities for adventure, creative expression, learning or exploring ideas, and leadership. Don’t forget as well that just relaxing and taking it easy is an important aspect of recreation.
Recreation in the form of active living helps people live longer. This kind of recreation reduces coronary heart disease, combats osteoporosis and diabetes, and rehabilitates back problems. Getting active also contributes to mental health and enhances overall well-being.
Research findings suggest that a brisk 20 to 30-minute walk can have the same calming effect as a mild tranquilizer. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, which are potent brain chemicals that relieve pain and stimulate relaxation.
If you are a senior, activity may also prolong your ability to live independently.
The bottom line: Regular physical activity will make you feel better, help you carry out daily tasks more easily, think more clearly and handle stress much more productively.
Recreational activities build strong families and community connections. Involvement in sports, cultural activities and other leisure pursuits helps couples and families stay connected. The family that plays together really does stay together! Many participants in community recreational activities find they make new friends and feel more connected with their neighbours.
Recreational activities build skills and promote personal growth. Getting involved in sports, the arts or community events generally enhances your self-esteem and makes you more satisfied with your life. Leaders often say their experiences with sports teams, summer camps, boards of directors and community events were key factors in their personal growth and development.
Taking an active role in your community also helps you build social skills and make new friends.
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So, let’s get started. Explore the possibilities, reviewing factors such as “when,” “where” and “costs.” Anticipate and address the barriers, and identify the needs you’d like recreation to meet in your life.
Recreation can contribute to your balance, well-being and happiness. Recreation is essential because it improves the quality of life for you, your family and the broader community.
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Learn More:
Community Recreation Links
For information about local recreation agencies, facilities and programs, connect with your municipal websites through the ARPA website.
Recreation and Parks Month
Find out more about recreational activities in your community.
The Benefits Website
More research documenting the benefits of recreation.
