Editorial

Free time Free time Free time Free time –––– accomplishing or relaxing accomplishing or relaxing accomplishing or relaxing accomplishing or relaxing

The University of Jyväskylä recently published a thesis on the free time of Finnish people. Have you given any thought to your own way of spending free time?

The study by Hanna Vehmanen shows that Finnish free time is highly work orientated. Vehmanen wants to make people contemplate their attitude towards their own free time and to that of others. The research material shows that free time can be a serious performance to Finns. A trip to the summer cottage can turn into a work camp and jogging is done gnashing one´s teeth. It raises concerns if satisfaction is gained through efficiency and accomplishing. There’s nothing wrong if genuine satisfaction can be gained through such methods. However, free time can turn into a rat race, cause additional stress and become a wearing factor to one’s mental health. On the other hand, the thesis shows that free time creates communality. Personal relationships formed through hobbies and interests can compensate for those that come with temporary work, and even for disrupted personal life and loosening family ties. What’s your free time like? What’s your free time like? What’s your free time like? What’s your free time like? Mother Nature shows us her beauty every day in forms of trees rimed with frost, colorful leaves, sunny afternoons and calm, light summer nights. Do you go for walks? Have you taken beautiful pictures? Do you have a friend to share this with, perhaps over a cup of coffee? Do you own a furry personal therapist?

We here in Salo Clubhouse have a growing photographic exhibition of our members’ pets. Their wise and comforting eyes, soft fur and unselfish love are a source of strength for many.

I wish you great joy among the wonders of nature an with people close to you. Enjoy life! Jenni d