Recreation and work-life balance: the benefits of leisure and pleasure for busy people

Presented by Sue Read Psychologist

Life Unlimited 2008 Recreation Summit

What is Work-life balance?

Many things to many people

How do we know we are out of balance?

Most of us are trying to juggle a range of activities: work and career family responsibilities self development and learning social and sporting activities community involvement

Some get more attention than others, some we let slip, often regretfully

What are the warning signs?

Physiological (physical)
Heart pounding, muscle tension, shortness of breath Dry mouth, high blood pressure Fatigue, insomnia Weakness, dizziness Headaches, stomach distress

Warning signs
Psychological (emotional) Depressed, helpless, anxious Nervous, confused, worried Bored, negative attitude/thoughts Unable to concentrate, suspicious, lethargic

Warning Signs
Behavioural (action or inaction)
Cigarette smoking, use of medications, drug/alcohol abuse Over/under eating, impulsive behaviour Fault finding, blaming, overly argumentative Inflexible, cynical, quickly angered, decline in work effectiveness

What can happen to us when we are out of balance?

Saliva Blood leaves Skin

Pain Reaction

Mind Alert Senses

Breathing Rate Heart Rate ( BP) Digestive System Blood Clotting Ability Muscles Tense Sweating

Immune Responses

Do you recognise any of these stress symptoms in yourself or others in your life?

So what can we do about it?

Leisure and recreation are crucial components of a balanced and healthy lifethe research says so!

Recreation and leisure the benefits

Provides us with a sense of identity, away from work activities Adds meaning to individual and community life Encourages personal growth and selfexpression Increases learning opportunities Improves mental and physical health

The benefits
Increased physical activity can lead to fewer health problems AND make you more productive at work! Reduces symptoms of depression, stress and anxiety Provides an outlet for the mind Provides physical rest, eases tension Helps us to enjoy nature Escape from the daily routine

Social benefits
Creates opportunities for socialisation Contributes to social cohesion Helps us connect and network with others Can contribute to family bonding

Help yourselfand others

Be a role model for work-life balance Invite creativity into your life Find ways to have FUN! Help yourself and others find out what ignites your passions and curiosities Live your dreams, dont just dream your life Believe in the importance of leisure and recreation in a busy life theres plenty of evidence!

Wellbeing
Social capital
Sense of community

Emotional strength

Health & fitness

Building skills

Participation
Enjoyment Self-efficacy Confidence

The things that matter most must never be at the mercy of the things that matter least.
Goethe