‘What is this life if full of care,

We have no time to stand and stare.’

– W.H. Davies

Having free time simply for relaxation has become a luxury today that few can avail. What is most contradictory is that people who earn the most cannot afford leisure. Yet, it is one of the most coveted things of our lives. We all believe that as soon as we achieve our goals, we shall enjoy our lives and have all the relaxation that we had missed out in life. It is simply wistful thinking, and as absurd as thinking of fasting now and eating everything later at one go.

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 organised manner and take correct decisions.

Leisure time maybe used for simply lazing around or pursuing activities which one is fond of. Playing games, having chit-chats with likeminded people, indulging in hobbies, reading a good book, listening to music or watching movies are some of the ways in which people may spend their leisure time.

The benefits of leisure are numerous. It keeps the mind stress-free which is a must for maintaining overall good health. People who indulge in games, sports or physical leisure activities have lower stress levels, lower body fat accumulation, lower levels of cholesterol and blood pressure.

Leisure activities help us to enhance our mood and avoid depression, thereby taking care of our mental health. Having free time gives us a sense of freedom which in turn makes us feel that our lives are under our control. The chain reaction that follows improves the quality of our lives which is the desired outcome of all our endeavours.

Most of us would argue that today’s lifestyle does not leave us with free time for indulging in leisure activities. Time is flexible and is the same for everyone. It is how we set our priorities which decides what to include and what to exclude. We often tend to exclude those activities which do not show immediate gains. However, in the long run we come to realise that things we tend to neglect are sometimes the most important ones in our lives. Spending time for leisure is definitely among these. Apart from solitary leisure activities we can also spend leisure time with our family and friends – creating beautiful everlasting memories and strengthening our relationships.   

Leisure costs nothing, and provides multiple gains. As we all know the most important and the best things in life are free. Therefore, we must find time for leisure at least thrice a week to unwind and free ourselves from the vicious cycle of stress and strain of modern life. Making leisure your best pal will definitely lead to a happier and healthier you.