Recreational therapy

Recreation is a word that refreshes, renews and relaxes the tired body and mind.

It is of two types –

Recreational activities provide an excellent role in re-socialisation.
It also acts very effectively to relieve physical as well as mental symptoms.
The role of recreational activity is very crucial in physical as well as psychiatric management, but comparatively, its role in psychiatric management is much more important than in physical management.
The selection and choice of recreational activity differ from patient to patient on the basis of the patient’s interest.
It may be active and passive, depending on the patient’s involvement.
To explore any recreational activity, a patient should be initially observed or listened to and introduced to gradual participation.
Some of the recreational activities commonly used in occupational therapy are singing, drawing, painting, dancing, music and both vocal and instrumental playing of both indoor and outdoor games.

Before giving up recreational activities, keep the following points in mind:

Purpose of recreational activity –

It gives physical as well as mental relaxation.
Divert your attention so that the patient or person forgets the pain for some time.
It teaches the patient to utilise their free time.
It helps to speed up the recovery process.
It influences the social, physical and emotional parts of a person.
It promotes an individual's social participation and growth.
Through the recreational activity, person explores their own potential for their satisfaction.