THUONG MAI UNIVERSITY

ENGLISH 1

PRESENTATION

TOPIC:

BENEFITS OF FREE TIME ACTIVITIES

Teacher: Nguyen Thi Thanh Ha

Group: 2

Class: 231_ENTH1411_01

HA NOI, 2023

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 TASK ASSIGNMENT TABLE

STT Name Mission Point

1 Truong Bao Han (Leader) Introduction 10
Conclusion
Part 1
Powerpoint
2 Do Phuong Hau Part 2 9.5
Powerpoint
3 Nguyen Thi Huong Giang Part 3 9.5
Word

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 MEETING MINUTE - 1ST
GROUP: 2
DATE: September 28, 2023
TIME: 23:30 PM
LOCATION: Google Meet
MEETING CALLED BY: Truong Bao Han
IN ATTENDANCE:
1. Truong Bao Han
2. Do Phuong Hau
3. Nguyen Thi Huong Giang
AGENDA/GOALS:
1. Finalize the discussion outline
2. Work assignment
3. Schedule the next group meeting

DUE STATUS
ACTION ITEMS OWNERS
DATE

1. Meeting Minute Truong Bao Han 29/09

2. Introduction + Conclusion +
Truong Bao Han
Part 1

3. Part 2 Do Phuong Hau 02/10

Nguyen Thi Huong

4. Part 3
Giang DONE

5. Check again Truong Bao Han 05/10

Nguyen Thi Huong

6.Word
Giang
08/10
Truong Bao Han
7. Powerpoint
Do Phuong Hau

MEETING NOTES:
CONCLUSION: Agree on general work and completion deadlines.

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CONTENTS
I. INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................5

1. Introducing the group’s members..................................................................5

2. Introducing the group’s topic.........................................................................5

II. BODY...............................................................................................................5

1. The importance of spare time activities.........................................................5

2. Some activities people can do in their free time............................................6

a. In a short time (break time or evening).....................................................6

b. For long period (weekends or long vacations)..........................................8

3. Some benefits of free-time activities..............................................................9

a. For physical health.....................................................................................9

b. For mental health.......................................................................................9

III. CONCLUSION.............................................................................................11

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I. INTRODUCTION

1. Introducing the group’s members

Our group has 3 members:

1. Truong Bao Han (leader).
2. Do Phuong Hau
3. Nguyen Thi Huong Giang

2. Introducing the group’s topic

Free time activities are activities people participate in when free, maybe in the
evenings or weekends. Activities are taken during free time outside the
mandatory time (such as work, class, and sleep). These are activities taken for
pleasure, relaxation, or other satisfactions, mostly, it is what people choose to do
in their free time after their daily chores and duties.

We all have 24 hours in a day and we spend almost all our time working or
studying but I’m pretty sure that everyone has their own free time, more or less.
And everyone has their way of using their spare time, some people engage in
leisure activities such as watching TV, playing games, some people participate
in sports activities, ... or hang out, some simply sleep.

In my opinion, every free time activity has its benefits, and especially after the
COVID - 19 epidemic, people have more unoccupied time, so leisure activities
are very important, they can change our lives in many ways, and we are going to
tell you about the benefits of free time activities. Additionally, we also give you
some suggestions about things you can do in your disengaged time.

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II. BODY

1. The importance of spare time activities.

Most of us would argue that today’s lifestyle does not leave us with free time for
indulging in leisure activities. We are all extremely busy: school, homework,
late to meetings, examinations,... Time isn't long enough to do everything. We
often tend to exclude those activities which do not show immediate gains.
Studying is undoubtedly essential for success, but in the long run we come to
realize that things we tend to neglect are sometimes the most important ones in
our lives. Spending time for leisure is definitely among these.
Life is now, and we must live it at present by delicately balancing our work and
leisure. Our minds need relaxation as much as our bodies need rest. A relaxed
mind has the ability to think clearly in a more organized manner and make
correct decisions. Apart from solitary leisure activities we can also spend leisure
time with our family and friends – creating beautiful everlasting memories and
strengthening our relationships.

In today's fast-paced world, everybody needs leisure time activities in their lives,
to balance the stress of work and life. Leisure helps re-energize and relax
people, so they can perform activities well in their lives.

2. Some activities people can do in their free time

In a busy life, people forget that they also need free time to rest and do the
things they want. When people have free time, they fall into a cycle of thinking,
not knowing what to do? Below are some free time activities for everyone.

a. In a short time (break time or evening)

Firstly, we all know that exercise is good for us, but it can be hard to find the
motivation to get up and do it. If you have some free time, why not use it to get
your body moving? Exercise doesn’t have to be boring – there are plenty of

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ways to make it fun. You could go for a run in nature, go to a new workout class
with a friend, or follow along with some exercise videos on YouTube. Whatever
you do, be sure it’s something that interests you. If you enjoy the exercise,
you’ll likely stick with it. Getting exercise is one of the best things you can do
with your free time because there are several benefits. Exercise can help
improve your mental health, increase your lifespan, and even make you happier.

Secondly, when was the last time you sat down with a good book? If it’s been a
while, use some of your leisure time to catch up on reading. It doesn’t matter
what you read – whether it’s the latest bestseller or an old classic, reading is a
great way to relax and learn something new. Not sure what to read next? Ask
your friends or family for recommendations, look online for lists of popular
books, or visit your local library. There are so many great titles, so take your
time and find one that interests you. Reading can also be a great way to relax.
Most of us are used to a fast-paced lifestyle, and taking time to read will provide
a welcomed change of pace. If you’re looking for a way to unwind, reading is
the perfect activity.

Thirdly, looking for a fun way to use your downtime? How about playing
games? You can play board games, card games, or video games. You can play
by yourself or with a friend. Playing games is fun and challenging and can also
be a good exercise for your brain (depending on the types of games you play).

Moreover, you can write in a journal. Writing in a journal is a great way to

process your thoughts and emotions. It can also be therapeutic, helping you to
work through difficult experiences. If you’ve never kept a journal before, there’s
no need to overthink it. Just start writing about whatever is on your mind. You
may want to write about your day-to-day experiences, or you may prefer to
explore deeper topics like your goals and fears. You can keep many different
types of journals, so find one that suits your needs. For example, if you’re

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struggling with anxiety, you may want to keep a gratitude journal. This involves
writing down things you’re grateful for each day.

Finally, you can spend time with friends and family. In our busy lives, it’s easy
to forget to spend time with the people we care about. Make an effort to connect
with your friends and family, even just for a quick catch-up. If you don’t live
near your friends or family, there are plenty of ways to stay in touch. You can
video call on FaceTime or Zoom. Alternatively, you could schedule a regular
phone call or send a handwritten letter. All of us need to have other people in
our lives. Spending time with loved ones can help to reduce stress, improve our
mood, and boost our overall well-being…

b. For long period (weekends or long vacations)

Firstly, volunteering is a great way to give back to your community. It can also
be a rewarding way to spend your free time. There are many ways to volunteer,
so you’re sure to find an opportunity that suits your interests and skills. You
could volunteer at a local soup kitchen, help at a school, or work with an
environmental organization. Just find something that matters to you and get
involved. Not only will volunteering make you feel good, but it can also help
you develop new skills and meet like-minded people.

Secondly, one of the best ways to spend your leisure time is to travel. Seeing
new places and experiencing different cultures can be incredibly rewarding. Of
course, travel can also be expensive. If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of
ways to save money on travel. You could look for deals on flights and
accommodations, couch surf, or take a road trip. No matter how you travel, it
will be an enriching experience.

Finally, you can start a blog. Blogging is a great way to share your thoughts and
experiences with the world. It’s also a great way to connect with others with
similar interests. Not only is blogging a fun way to spend your time, but it can

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also be rewarding in other ways. For example, you could make money from
your blog through advertising or affiliate marketing. You never know. Your
blog could turn into a thriving online business.

In conclusion, Free time activities are extremely beneficial for everyone because
it will help everyone relax, feel comfortable and get rid of all pressure. So
choose activities that are suitable and reasonable for yourself.

3. Some benefits of free-time activities

a. For physical health
Firstly, participating in physical activities such as sports, dancing, … can help
improve cardiovascular health. These activities increase heart rate and promote
better blood circulation which in turn strengthens the heart and reduces the risk
of cardiovascular diseases.

Secondly, recreational activities often involve physical movements and exercise

which can help in maintaining a healthy weight. Regular physical activities burn
calories and helps to control body weight, reducing the risk of obesity and
related health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure and joint problems.

Additionally, participating in recreational activities can improve muscle strength

and flexibility. Free time activities like swimming, yoga or weightlifting can
help build and tone muscle, increase flexibility and improve overall body
strength. This not only enhances physical performance but also reduces the risk
of injuries and improves posture.

Lastly, free time activities can improve overall energy levels and quality of
sleep. Regular physical activities help to regulate sleep patterns and promote
better quality, leading to increased energy during the day.

Conclusion, engaging in recreational activities during leisure time can have

numerous benefits for physical health. Therefore, it is important to prioritize and

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incorporate recreational activities into our free time for betterment of our
physical heal

b. For mental health

For older people like our grandparents, they were retired so they have more
spare time than younger people. Instead of sitting down all day, they can get up
and keep active like growing the garden, it seems an ideal way to kick off their
morning. It is great for their health and creates a more restful night’s sleep. In
fact, a 2015 study found that just two 50 minutes sessions of potting plants and
watering flowers can dramatically improve dexterity, stamina, and brain
function. Furthermore, after seven weeks, the participants of the study all lost
weight, particularly around their waists, which is one of the most dangerous
parts of the body to store fat.

For teenagers and officers, teachers and students have been caught up in our
work, study and deadlines, so we have little time to relax and entertain. Frankly
speaking, if we have free time, we can blow off some steam and pump ourselves
up after work and study so nervous-racking. It’s a healthy and productive
distraction from work or personal trouble.

Whoever you are or wherever you are, in your spare time, you should start a
recreational activity. That activity will help you relax. It’s therapeutic for your
spirit. Intellectual activities will help you consolidate knowledge, gain more
experience in life. A study by Professor Matthew Zawadzki shows that mentally
engaging in leisure activities reduces stress and has mediated, lasting health
benefits. Problem and troubles in daily life bring negative emotions, gradually,
we will suffer from depression, which leads to bad behaviors such as
committing suicide.

Group activities will help you strengthen relationships. You will make more
friends, exchange and chat with each other. Sometimes just having a cup of

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coffee together, or playing sports together, you will also get joy from those
things. Or you can also gather to hang out or travel with friends or family, it
helps you improve your relationship to become better, play mini-games together,
sing karaoke, chat. Those are extremely interesting experiences that you should
not miss. When participating in those activities, you also realize that you are
very interesting, no longer have guilt and low self-esteem when expressing
yourself in front of people. You will realize that, when you are happy, you want
to share that joy with everyone, thereby connecting everyone together and
becoming stronger. Even if you are sad, family and friends will always be there
to support you. Then you realize that you are so happy to have them around.
Those are true human emotions. So, give it away and in return, you will receive
extremely valuable things.

III. CONCLUSION

In conclusion, I want to emphasize again that free time activities play a vital role
in part of our daily life. They do not kill your time only but they bring a wide
range of biological virtues as well. To recapitulate, recreational activities are
vital for people of all ages since they help us to entertain, get rid of suffering
mental illness or threatening diseases, avoid the lack of leading and nurturing
your spiritual life, and form a bond with other people. Our research has analyzed
several benefits of free time activities in the hope of raising your awareness of
the importance of leisure pursuits. Finally, we expect you not to underestimate
the value of free time activities in daily life as means of refreshing our faculties.
Leisure time is necessary for us and no doubt we should have it.

THE END.

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