ABSTRACT
Leisure is important for the individual, the community and the state. Iso-Ahola and Mannel (2004) consider, on the basis of considerable research, that active leisure is important for health and well-being. Participation in both physical and non-physical leisure activities has been shown to reduce depression and anxiety, produce positive moods and enhance self-esteem and self-concept, facilitate social interaction, increase general psychological well-being and life satisfaction, and improve cognitive functioning. Recent research has also shown that middle-aged men who work long hours, but remain physically active, have a reduced risk of heart disease, than those who do not remain physically active, who in turn are more than twice as likely to die of heart disease than those who devote less time to their jobs. General physical activities, including walking, cycling, gardening, DIY, have been advocated to help with physical fitness. Veenhoven (2009) includes the importance of leisure for enjoyment of life, which he considers lengthens life.
