The Power of Entertainment: How to Use Downtime for Relaxation and Growth

When life moves fast, carving out time for entertainment might seem like a luxury, but maybe it’s more necessary than you might think.

As schedules fill and stress builds, engaging in recreational activities like concerts, sports, or museum visits provides a vital reset. These moments help shift our focus, improve mood, and create opportunities to reconnect with ourselves, with others, and with the present moment.

Research studies continue to show that leisure activities support overall wellbeing by reducing stress, enhancing creativity, and promoting stronger social bonds.

According to the Canadian Index of Wellbeing, individuals who regularly take part in cultural and recreational activities report higher life satisfaction and better mental health. Whether it’s a lively group outing or a quiet solo experience, entertainment plays a valuable role in helping us recharge and build more balanced lives.

If you know where to look, entertainment doesn’t have to be expensive, especially when you’re using your perks.

Here’s how you can enjoy meaningful downtime and access perks across the country!

Alberta

From lively performances to peaceful ranch escapes, Alberta’s perks offer something for every mood.

Head to Sesame Street Live through FirstClass Group Tickets for a fun family-friendly outing. Looking to move your body? Check out HotShop Spin and Hot Yoga for an energizing session or build new skills at DC Dance Club. For a dose of fresh air and local charm, unwind with a visit to Boundary Ranch, where scenic views and nature-driven experiences await. Whether you want to laugh, stretch, or saddle up, Alberta’s perks deliver variety and fun for all ages.

British Columbia

B.C. is the place to be for outdoorsy escapes and nature-filled fun, and your perks make it all the more accessible.

Hop aboard a local fishing charter like Full Melt Charters, Fijian Son Fishing Charter, or Reelin’ Shores for a peaceful day on the water. Into guided adventures? Try Hunt Fish Maniac Resort or Full Throttle Fishing Adventures for unique experiences off the beaten path. If winding down is more your style, River Therapy offers an immersive way to connect with nature. No matter how you like to relax, there's a B.C. perk for you.

Newfoundland and Labrador

Sometimes, the best entertainment is the kind that lets you slow down and have a shared experience with friends and family.

For instance, you can enjoy a creative afternoon painting pottery at Clay Café. It’s an excellent activity to enjoy the moment in a relaxing and calm environment, who knows, it may even spark a new hobby.

Ontario

Ontario offers something for every kind of explorer—from cultural performances to outdoor thrills.

Use your perks for attractions like Little Canada, MiMuseum, GlowZone 360, LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Toronto, Disneyland® Resort, Fresh Paint Studio, the Royal Canadian International Circus, and the Toronto Zoo. You’ll also find perks for performance lovers at Mirvish, Tapestry Opera, and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.

Feeling active? Try Bad Axe Throwing, Air Riderz, Ballroom Dance Lessons, Toprock Climbing, Gone Sailing Adventures, WSC Survival School Inc., or yoga studios like Pure Yoga Ottawa and Inner Soul Yoga & Cycle. For younger explorers, check out Camp Pathfinder and Headwaters Wilderness Program.

Quebec

Quebec is a cultural treasure for those looking to explore art, entertainment, and family fun.

From immersive museums to classic movie nights, your perks give you access to Tiqets, Cineplex, Go City, and Putting Edge. Whether you’re discovering something new or revisiting an old favourite, there’s something special about enjoying Quebec’s unique take on leisure and entertainment.

Planning a trip or want to connect more deeply with the local culture? Check out language learning through Expression Language Centre and make your next visit even more rewarding.

National

No matter where you’re based, you can get active and make the most of your downtime with national perks.

Check out Climb Life to explore new heights and challenge yourself in a way that feels fun, social, and empowering. With locations available across Canada, it’s a simple way to stay moving!

Let’s Get Moving

Entertainment is more than a way to pass time. It supports wellbeing by offering a chance to reset, focus, and connect both with yourself and the people around you.

Whether it’s attending a performance, exploring somewhere new, or enjoying a favourite activity, these experiences help break up routine and restore balance.

With Venngo, it’s easier to create  these moments. From local adventures to cultural experiences and recreation for all ages, our platform brings you perks that fit your lifestyle and location. Whether you're looking for something active, creative, or calming, there's something waiting for you.

Log into the platform to take advantage of your perks!

• https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/03/230317145019.htm#:~:text=the%20British%20Government%27s%20Department%20for,Digital%2C%20Culture%2C%20Media%20and%20Sport
  
• https://observer.com/2018/11/doctors-prescribe-art-montreal-heart-condition-asthma-cancer/#:~:text=%E2%80%9CWe%20have%20measured%20the%20levels,%E2%80%9D
  
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7190042/#:~:text=People%20who%20engaged%20with%20receptive,This%20study%20was

Reminders:

• Log into your account to access your perks.
• Offers vary by employer and are subject to change.
• Don’t see your favourite brand? Use the “Suggest a Perk” feature on the app or website—we’d love to hear from you.