Taking part in leisure activities is a great way to spend your time, especially during the colder months. Not only do these activities help you unwind and relax, but they also come with a variety of benefits.
We know the Winter season can often bring with it a sense of heaviness and stress. That’s why it’s important to take some time to focus on mental health and wellness during your leisure time activities. One way to do this is by incorporating new, fun and exciting elements.
Obviously, outside activities tend to go by the board in Winter – somehow nothing is as much fun in the wind and rain as it is in the sunshine – right?
Leisure activities can be a great way to wind down and have fun – it’s important to recognise the impact of stress on our mental health. Stressful life events can have detrimental effects on our well-being if not properly addressed.
Winter always seems to make this worse.
Research has shown that increased levels of cortisol, a hormone released during times of stress, can lead to a range of physiological health outcomes including an increased risk of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
However, engaging in enjoyable leisure activities can have positive effects on our mental health and help combat the effects of such stress. Activities such as physical exercise, creative pursuits, and social interactions have all been linked to increased life satisfaction and engagement.
So, you can see, having fun is vitally important to our health and well-being. It’s so easy to dig a hole of misery which is difficult to climb out of.
The type of physical activity that is appropriate for different age groups can vary. Here are examples of different types of physical activity for different age groups:
Children and Adolescents
Children and adolescents require a lot of physical activity, as it helps to build their bones, muscles, and overall health. Some great physical activities for this age group include playing sports such as soccer and basketball, running, skipping rope, bike riding, and swimming. These activities help to develop gross motor skills, improve cardiovascular health, and build strength.
Young Adults
Young adults are in the prime of their physical abilities and can participate in a wide range of physical activities. Activities like hiking, skiing, snowboarding, rock climbing, and weightlifting can be great options for this age group. Young adults can also participate in team sports or group fitness classes to stay motivated and engaged.
Middle-aged Adults
Middle-aged adults need to focus on maintaining their strength and flexibility as they age. Activities such as yoga, Pilates, jogging, cycling, and swimming can help to improve physical fitness and maintain mobility. Other options for this age group include dance classes, martial arts, and group fitness classes such as Zumba or aerobics.
Seniors
Seniors need to focus on maintaining their strength and balance as they age. Activities such as walking, water aerobics, yoga, and Tai Chi are great options for seniors. These activities are low-impact, but they still provide cardiovascular benefits and help seniors maintain their physical health.
No matter your age, it’s important to find physical activities that you enjoy and that fit your fitness level. It’s also important to consult with a doctor before starting a new exercise routine, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns. By finding the right physical activity for your age group, you can improve your overall health and well-being while having fun.
A popular activity across all age groups in Winter is billiards.
Spending time playing games like billiards or snooker will keep you active, give you some social interaction with friends and family, and improve your focus.
For those who prefer indoor activities, billiards is perfect.
With the right billiard accessories and billiard table lights, you can enjoy a calming and entertaining experience. Spending time playing billiards will keep you active and improve your focus.
Talking of focus – it might sound crazy, but wearing cosmetic contact lenses Australia style can add an extra element of fun to your leisure activities.
It’s said that seeing the world through someone else’s eyes makes for a fresh insight or two into our own lives.
Experimenting with light blue contact lenses or coloured contacts can help you see things differently – including yourself – and showcase your creativity and individuality.
For those who crave a little bit of excitement, why not try out red contacts while participating in outdoor activities? Not only will it make you stand out, but it can also add another dimension to an already special experience.
But it doesn’t always have to be a solo adventure – here are some ideas for leisure activities that can help you connect with others:
Join a billiards league: Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, joining a billiards or snooker league can be a fun and social way to spend your evenings. Not only will you get to play the game you love, but you’ll also get to meet new people and make friends. Billiards and snooker are great games for all the age groups.
Host a game night: Nothing brings people together quite like a good old-fashioned game night. Invite some friends over, break out your favourite board games, and enjoy some laughs and friendly competition. And if you want to add some ambience to the evening, consider investing in some billiard table lights to create a cosy atmosphere.
Get involved in a community project: Not only can volunteering for a community project help you make a positive impact on others, but it can also provide opportunities for social interaction. Whether you’re helping to clean up a local park or assisting with a food drive, you’ll likely meet new people who share your passion for making a difference.
There are a whole host of activities, for those who are more gregarious, like amateur dramatic groups, photography clubs, night classes on a range of subjects, wine or foodie clubs – you can find all the different options online.
Whatever you choose to do – make sure your year is a lot more fun and keeps you active.
