Work, Rest and Play

This chapter reviews the factors that contribute to effective recovery from work, and practical steps employers and employees can take to maximise the effectiveness of rest periods experienced by employees. A particularly important aspect of the recovery process during leisure time appears to be psychological detachment from work. The notion of psychological detachment from work was introduced by S. Sonnentag and U. Bayer in an effort to describe ideal circumstances for recovery from work strain. Psychological detachment from work is a critical aspect of the recovery process and means more than simply not being at work. The effect of a bad day at work can impact how employees feel after the workday is complete. The chapter looks at factors that make the rest period itself effective. There are four main factors that need to be taken into account in order to optimise the effectiveness of rest: enjoyment, home environment, work characteristics and timing.