Cardiovascular diseases, obesity and mental health related issues have ascended in the urban areas due to lack of recreational and social activities. "There are many benefits of recreational activities for mental and physical health. They have positive effects on every person," said Inamullah Abdullah, COO of A.A Joyland (Pvt)(Ltd).
This company is operating the Karachi's biggest amusement Aladdin Park.
Inamullah said recreational activities reinforce self-confidence, while they also overcome hyperactivity in children who are key beneficiaries of such activities.
In this regard, one may refer to the study titled 'The relationship between organised recreational activity and mental health" authored by Gillian Street and Ray James of Mentally Healthy WA Centre for Behavioural Research in Cancer Control at Curtin University, Australia. It concluded that participation in recreational groups and socially-supported physical activity help reduce stress, anxiety and depression and also reduce symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
Many experts agree that the lifestyle lacking recreational and social activities lead to mental illness. This particular lifestyle engenders obesity and cardiovascular diseases, let alone mental health issues.
It is believed that mental illness afflicts 15 to 35 million adults in Pakistan. Also, a scientific survey by Pakistan Endocrine Society (PES) back in 2018 revealed that obesity (speedily) falling on most of Pakistanis.
Based on research studies, it can be said that one can improve mental and physical health expeditiously by embracing recreational activities.
"Recreational facilities rejuvenate and refresh youths enabling them to contribute more to the society and economy positively.
Inamullah said this is the reason A.A Joyland began its journey with the aim to revamp the recreational industry in Pakistan. "Largely, citizens lack such facilities due to which we introduce leading recreational services and products that would provide entertainment to the local people of all ages," he said.