Healing Through Joy and Play: How Recreational Therapy Promotes Inclusion

Recreational therapy has been an empowering part of my journey. It has helped me express myself, build confidence, and discover joy through creative and meaningful activities. Whether it’s bowling, exercising, or simply spending time outdoors, these experiences have reminded me that healing and growth can happen through fun and connection. Recreational therapy has not only strengthened my body and mind but, it has also shown me new ways to embrace life with positivity and purpose.

What Is Recreational Therapy?

Recreational Therapy is an inclusive and accessible program that offers a wide range of activities like exercise, art, nature, sports, music, and theater. These activities are designed to improve physical and mental health, enhance social interaction, and boost self-esteem. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities can participate in recreational therapy, giving them opportunities to develop motor skills, practice life skills, personal goals and experience success in a supportive environment. Most importantly, it's a fun and rewarding way to grow, adapt, and connect with others.

Recreational Activities

Here are just some of the many ways recreational therapy helps participants thrive.

• Exercise: Exercise helps participants stay active, reduce stress, and improve strength, endurance and flexibility. Activities like yoga, strength training, and aerobics also help boost motivation and self-esteem.

• Art: Art is a powerful tool for self expression, creating, painting, drawing are many ways how participants can share their thoughts and emotions. Adaptive tools such as special grips can help with fine motor challenges fully engaging in the experience.

• Nature: Spending time in nature supports emotional well-being and reduces stress. Whether observing wild life, or touching natural elements, participants use all their senses to connect with the world around them which can boost self-esteem and promote mindfulness

• Sports: Playing sports encourages teamwork, physical activity, and social interaction. Participants can enjoy activities like bowling, pickleball, golf and basketball using adaptive equipment when needed. Sports help build coordination, strength & confidence

• Music: Music Therapy allows participants to express themselves by listening, singing, dancing or playing instruments. Music has a unique ability to lift spirits, improve mood and enhance focus.

• Theatre Play: Performing in theater encourages creativity, memory, and collaboration. Whether acting in a play, participating in a musical, participants build confidence, communication skills, and a sense of accomplishment

Barriers to Accessible Recreation:

While recreational therapy is powerful, there are still barriers that prevent some individuals from participating fully, including:

Physical obstacles like uneven terrain

Lack of ramps

Social stigmas or lack of awareness

Transportation challenges

How CorMission supports:

CorMission is proud to support Recreational Therapy in many ways. We help organize volunteer opportunities, assist in accessible theatre productions, and support participants throughout their journey. If you'd like to help, donations are appreciated and can be made online at cormissioncincy.com or by mail at CorMission, 2859 Boudinot Ave, Cincinnati, Ohio 45238.

Upcoming Events:

The Holiday Boutique will be held on December 3, 4, and 5, 2025. Get your holiday shopping done while supporting CorMission. We will have a wide selection of unique merchandise and gifts available, as well as take custom orders.

Thank you for reading this blog post. I can’t wait to share what happens at CorMission. Stay tuned - there is so much more to come!

With love,

Marisa Conners

Remote Blog Intern at CorMission