Most of you will ask- What the heck is Recreation Therapy? Why is it important? These questions are not unusual for Recreation Therapist to answer. Recreation Therapy has been around since the 1950’s or longer. It was promoted that recreation is a therapeutic tool of treatment for those with Behavioral Health issues, for Children/Adolescents, older adults, Physical Rehabilitation, school systems, military, etc. The Therapeutic Recreation Specialist helps clients to develop skills, knowledge, adaptation/modifications, and behaviors for daily living and community involvement. It is especially important if someone has had a life event or disease or stroke, for example, that they would need modifications to still enjoy a favorite hobby.

During this ongoing Pandemic, we have been witness to a surge of Recreation Therapy. On their own, people have been drawn to recreation & leisure activities for comfort and ease.

For Example:

Exercise, Yoga, Meditation, Mindfulness,

Creative Art, needlework, quilting, sewing, cooking, baking, games of all sorts,

Forest Bathing, Hiking, Gardening, Outdoor Activities, the list is endless…

Whatever you have found to be your outlet or escape during your leisure time is your own personal Recreation Therapy. No matter your age, limitations, challenges or not- everyone should have a stress reliever & leisure hobby.

As we celebrate this International Recreation Therapy (RT) month, realize and promote this wonderful profession. Thank your local RT…. we are there encouraging, teaching, connecting, creating, and inspiring others to a life well-lived and enjoyed. What hobbies or recreational outlet have helped you through the Pandemic?

(It’s great to be a Total Rec- UGA 1986, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist)