Why you should take your leisure time seriously

With model kits for mindfulness and adult colouring books flying off the shelves, it seems the COVID-era craving for quiet, comforting hobbies has returned.But there are also serious benefits to investing our efforts into more intense hobbies.Sociologists say "serious" leisure activities — those requiring an investment of time, effort and in some cases, costuming —  can foster connection and community that goes much deeper than a casual hobby.So what does this tell us about the purpose and power of playful pursuits? Should we get serious about our leisure time?