Leisure

Abstract

The idea of leisure has existed since Adam and Eve were in the Garden of Eden. However, the contemporary notion of leisure grew from the modern industrial age, and the definitions and meanings have continued to expand. Leisure can be misunderstood often because it can be described in many ways. This essay describes five categories of meanings related to time, activity, state of mind, spaces and places, and cultural context, and expands on how leisure can contribute to quality of life in all cultures. The ways that leisure and recreation are facilitated for individuals and communities are also described. For leisure to be meaningful and empowering, a milieu of social, economic, cultural, and environmental contexts need to be considered. Leisure can be an end in itself as well as a means to contribute to meaningful and healthy living.