individual within a social setting can provide health enhancing benefits such as lower morbidity rates, improved subjective health, and enhanced survival for the individual (Lennartsson & Silverstein, 2001) as well as provide a sense of accomplishment, empowerment, social integration and emotional support.
Leisure activities that are low demand have been found to be associated with better mental health (Everard et al, 2000) in elderly people and are an important aspect related to the maintenance of successful ageing. Engaging in activities that provide humourous interactions provides positive psychological benefits (Szabo, 2003) such as mood enhancement and reduced levels of anxiety. Alternative therapies such as reflexology, yoga, mediation and massage are shown to help lessen or eliminate symptoms people often experience and associate with depression (Choicemedia, 2003). Many studies have shown that Hatta Yoga significantly reduces the symptoms of depression and anxiety (Weintraub, 2003), this is achieved through the use of certain postures for the body. These help to improve an individuals mood by “moving energy through places in the body where feelings of grief or anger are stored” (Weintraub, 2003) and help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety that are closely related with ill mental health.
Leisure participation in activities such as Tai Chi can provide a wide range of health benefits to the muscular, circulatory and skeletal systems. Evidence also shows that the graceful and flowing movements of Tai Chi can reduces stress and provide a way to cultivate body, mind and spirit (International Taoist Tai Chi Society, 2003a). Tai Chi can also be effective in minimising a wide range of health problems. These