Leisure
Otium: The Roman Concept of Leisure
The Latin term otium signifies “leisure,” “free time,” or “peaceful inactivity.” In ancient Rome, otium held a positive connotation, denoting time away from public duties or business—time for intellectual pursuits, relaxation, and personal enjoyment. It was often seen as the counter to negotium, meaning “business” or “occupation” (literally, “non-leisure”).
Among the Roman elite, otium was highly prized as it fostered reflection, study, and the cultivation of the mind—a key element in achieving a balanced life. This Roman appreciation for leisure influenced later European perspectives on work-life balance, encouraging ideas about contemplation and personal fulfillment.
Redefining Leisure
When most people think of leisure, they envision relaxation, being outdoors, and enjoying the day. But true leisure isn’t just about resting—it’s about embracing the freedom to engage fully in activities, especially without the constraints of time or pressure.
Physical Leisure
For me, physical leisure is everything. During my morning walks, I carry a 40-pound weight vest for an hour, and that’s my leisure. This freedom to move my body in the open, without rushing or pressing for time, is liberating.
Leisure in Street Photography
I take the same approach in street photography. My photography is not forced—I walk the streets leisurely, letting moments unfold. Each day, I’m simply working toward new photographs without pushing for a particular result. It’s not about strict discipline or outcomes; it’s about savoring the process.
Enjoying the Process
Whether it’s photography or working out, avoid stressing over results. Don’t worry if a photograph is “good” or if you’re progressing fast enough in the gym. Focus instead on enjoying the journey, moving through each task with leisure and grace. When you immerse yourself in the process, the experience itself becomes rewarding.
Keeping It Simple
Life becomes easier when we simplify. For instance, when I’m out photographing, I use P mode on my camera. With a compact digital camera set on P mode, I can capture snapshots without stressing over settings or light conditions. Photography becomes a natural extension of my day, not an obligation.
Practical Tips for Leisure
Adopting a leisure approach in fitness is equally freeing. Your workouts don’t need to be elaborate. A home gym setup with simple equipment—push-up bars, a pull-up bar, and a weighted vest—is more than enough. Walking with a weighted vest is the best part of my day and the moment I look forward to most.
The Leisure Mindset
Leisure is more than relaxation—it’s a mindset that embraces ease in action. Finding joy in natural activities, doing what you love without pushing, and embracing the moment defines the leisure mindset.
Leisure Recap:
- Otium: Embracing leisure as the Romans did, for balance and self-cultivation
- Physical Leisure: Morning walks with a 40-pound vest for an hour
- Street Photography: Taking photos leisurely without stress or forced results
- Enjoy the Process: Focus on the journey rather than outcomes in any activity
- Keep It Simple: Use P mode in photography for effortless snapshots
- Fitness in Leisure: Simple home workouts—push-ups, pull-ups, and walking with a weighted vest
- Leisure Mindset: Finding joy in each activity without pressure or