Leisure, a Complex Term

Introduction
What is leisure? ‘leisure … is a contentious term with a variety of meanings … leisure might be regarded as time free from obligations, as a collection of specific activities (embracing sport, recreation, tourism, arts and entertainment) or simply as a state of mind, it could be defined as whatever people perceive it to be’ Bull et al. (2003). Leisure is the time your not working, the opposite of work (Parry, J., Long, J.,1988), leisure creates identity, leisure is freedom from constrains, an individual state of mind and perception (stockdale, 1985). The English word for leisure seems to come from the Latin word licere which meant “to be permitted” or “to be free”. ‘Leisure has evolved into a complex phenomenon which has many meanings for different people and groups. It is increasingly being associated with notions of well being, so that enjoying the activities we pursue in our leisure time gives us personal enjoyment, relaxation, personal fulfilment and a sense of pleasure to make us satisfied and complete human beings leisure is vital to provide an outlet and opportunity to do different things from the routine, daily activities and, for those who work, a break from the mental and physical requirement of employment.’  
When you look for an explanation of what leisure is you find many different definitions. Leisure is a complex concept, it can have different meaning for everyone but is something we have the freedom to choose what we will do and with whom. It can define who you are and which group you belong to.

Free from obligations
Lets have a look at some of the different concepts that were mentioned in the definitions. Leisure is time free from obligations. It is true that many people describe leisure as the time they do not have to work, do work related activities for example travel or study, life-maintenance activities such as sleeping or eating or maintaining their household such as cooking, cleaning, taking care of the children or bringing...