Need Rec Therapy CEUs?
Your FREE February 2025 Issue of Rec Therapy Today
Danny Pettry/ Rec Therapy Today has consistenly put out a newsletter since 2004. (20+ years).
Dear Innovative Rec Therapist —
Happy Recreational Therapy Month! 🎉
This is your time to shine, celebrate, and promote the power of recreational therapy.
Whether you’re working in hospitals, schools, long-term care, community programs, or anywhere in between—what you do makes a difference!
We’ve packed this special issue with resources, inspiration, and fun to help you celebrate and advocate for our incredible profession. Here’s what you’ll find inside:
📌 FREE PDF Download – Celebrating Rec Therapy Month: 30 engaging printouts to help you spread awareness and educate others.
📌 FREE Live Teleconference – Feb. 22nd: Rec Therapists: We Put the RT in HEART ❤️. Join us for up to five FREE CEU hours of continuing education!
📌 Encouragement & Fun – Positive affirmations, humor-filled cartoons, and a special infographic on the health benefits of exercise.
📌 February Happenings – A list of holidays, an acknowledgment of Black History Month, and creative activity ideas to make the most of the season.
📌 Featured Content –
📖 Book of the Month: Let Them Theory
🎲 Game of the Month: Uzzle
⭐ Rec Therapist of the Month: Vicky Pitner
📝 Article of the Month: Promoting Passion for Life – A fresh take on February beyond Valentine’s Day.
📌 Community Spotlight – We’re featuring information submitted by our readers, and the winners of our Rec Therapy Today T-shirt giveaway are posted inside!
📌 Our Next Giveaway – You’ll have to scroll to the bottom to find out what’s next!
And big news—we’re officially launching the Rec Therapy Today YouTube Channel! 🎥 This will be a growing hub for quick educational clips, inspiration, and rec therapy insights. Be sure to subscribe and stay tuned!
Finally, don’t forget to check out our group/corporate CEU discounts—it’s a great way to save while keeping up with your professional development.
Thank you for being part of this amazing community. Keep making a difference, and let’s celebrate Recreational Therapy Month together!
Your friend and partner in Rec Therapy,
Danny W. Pettry II, M.Ed., M.S., LPC, NCC, CTRS-BHS
P.S. — Monthly giveaway is at bottom of this page, so you’ll have to scroll to the bottom.
I get to have fun through leisure activities and modalities while helping people improve – Phoenix from California
Terri from Texas
What do you enjoy about Rec Therapy Today?
1) There are always great sessions for CEUs. Many of them are related to the field I work in (mental health), and also offer a variety of others that help me to get “out of the box”, and see what else is going on in the field of Recreation.
2) That the CEUs are offered online and have plenty of time to get them done before my CTRS certification needs to be renewed.
3) All of the CEU sessions are accepted for renewal for CTRS certification.
4) Everyone I’ve talked to at Rec Therapy Today is always so personable, helpful, and professional.
FREE Printouts to Help You Promote Your Profession for Rec Therapy Month
Image below of printouts was sent to us by Allison P.
Save the Date: FREE CEU Teleconference
New! Five Self-Study CEU Courses Per Month at Rec Therapy Today
At Rec Therapy Today, we’re always looking for ways to support recreational therapists in their professional growth. That’s why we’re excited to introduce a new monthly self-study CEU program, launching this February!
Each month, we’ll release five self-study courses designed to fit into your busy schedule. These courses are based on reading a special report, completing a short quiz, and receiving your certificate of completion—all online and at your own pace.
February 2025 Self-Study Catalog Coming Soon!
We’ll be releasing our first February 2025 Self-Study Catalog before the end of this month. Each catalog will outline the available courses and topics, making it easy for you to choose the ones that best fit your interests and continuing education needs.
👉 Check out our January 2025 catalog here [insert link] to get an idea of what’s to come!
Not to Be Confused with the Free February Teleconference
While we’re launching this self-study CEU program, we also want to remind you that it is separate from our free February teleconference. The teleconference is a live event featuring five one-hour sessions, whereas our self-study courses are available on-demand throughout the month.
Why Choose Self-Study CEUs?
- Flexible & Convenient: Complete at your own pace.
- High-Quality Learning: Based on in-depth special reports.
- Immediate Certification: Take the quiz and get your certificate instantly.
- Affordable & Accessible: Designed with recreational therapists in mind.
We’re thrilled to offer this new way for you to earn CEUs on your terms. Keep an eye out for our February 2025 catalog, and get ready to expand your knowledge with Rec Therapy Today!
📢 Note: Our January 2025 catalog is already available and has been pre-approved by NCTRC. Be sure to check it out here: [insert link].
🚀 Stay tuned for more details coming soon!
Inspiration for the Month
Humor of the Month
Infographics for the Month
Holidays this Month
U.S. Holidays in February 2025
Groundhog Day
- Date: Sunday, February 2, 2025
- Celebration: A fun tradition where Punxsutawney Phil predicts the arrival of spring based on whether he sees his shadow.
Super Bowl Sunday
- Date: Sunday, February 9, 2025
- Celebration: The championship game of the NFL, celebrated with parties, food, and football fans across the country.
Valentine’s Day
- Date: Friday, February 14, 2025
- Celebration: A day to express love and appreciation for partners, friends, and family, often with cards, flowers, and chocolates.
Presidents’ Day
- Date: Monday, February 17, 2025
- Celebration: A federal holiday honoring all U.S. presidents, particularly George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Many businesses and schools close, and it’s also a popular day for retail sales.
Monthly Themes for February
Black History Month
- Focus: Celebrating and honoring the achievements and contributions of Black Americans to history, culture, and society.
Heart Health Month
- Focus: Raising awareness about cardiovascular health, promoting healthy lifestyle choices, and encouraging heart disease prevention.
Recreational Therapy Month
- Focus: Highlighting the importance of recreational therapy in improving mental and physical well-being, as well as the valuable work of recreational therapists.
Library Lovers’ Month
- Focus: Celebrating libraries and promoting the importance of literacy, reading, and access to educational resources.
National Bird Feeding Month
- Focus: Encouraging people to feed and care for wild birds during the challenging winter months.
Get Discount with our Corporate/ Group Rec Therapy CEUs Membeship
Contact us: Danny(at)DannyPettry.com to receive your group membership.
Featured Article for the Month
Promoting Passion for Life: Finding Joy and Connection Beyond Valentine’s Day
By Danny W. Pettry II, M.Ed., M.S., LPC, NCC, CTRS-BHS
For many, Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love and connection, but for others, it can be a painful reminder of loss, loneliness, or longing. This is especially true for individuals who are isolated, in treatment facilities, grieving the loss of loved ones, or lacking a strong support system. Recreational therapists have a unique opportunity to transform this holiday into a time of renewed passion for life by promoting hobbies, meaningful relationships, and the joy of connection beyond romantic love.
Shifting the Focus: From Romance to Recreation
Valentine’s Day often comes with societal pressure to have a significant other, but it doesn’t have to be about romance. It can be about celebrating passions, interests, and the connections that make life meaningful. Recreational therapists can encourage individuals to embrace hobbies, explore their creative side, or discover new forms of recreation that bring fulfillment. Whether it’s through painting, crafting, gardening, or playing a favorite sport, these activities provide a sense of purpose and joy that transcends the holiday.
Building Healthier, Meaningful Relationships
One of the most powerful ways to combat loneliness is by fostering healthier connections with others. Recreational therapists can guide individuals in developing social skills and cultivating kindness. Simple gestures—like smiling, being open to conversations, or showing genuine interest in others—can lay the foundation for meaningful friendships. Group activities, such as collaborative art projects, board games, or fitness classes, also encourage bonding and create opportunities to meet like-minded individuals.
The Power of Kindness and Gratitude
Encouraging acts of kindness can be a game-changer for individuals struggling with feelings of isolation. Small gestures, such as writing “thank you” notes, volunteering, or creating small gifts for others, not only brighten someone else’s day but also boost the giver’s mood and sense of purpose. Gratitude practices, such as journaling three things one is thankful for each day, can help individuals focus on the positive aspects of life and foster a more optimistic outlook.
Exploring the Passion Within
Sometimes, the best relationship to nurture is the one we have with ourselves. Recreational therapists can help individuals reconnect with their inner passions and strengths. Journaling, mindfulness activities, and solo pursuits like hiking or reading can offer moments of peace and self-discovery. By celebrating their unique talents and interests, individuals can build confidence and resilience, which naturally enhances their interactions with others.
Creating a Celebration of Life
This Valentine’s Day, recreational therapists can transform the narrative by planning events that celebrate life, hobbies, and connections. Ideas include:
- A Hobby Fair: Encourage individuals to showcase their hobbies and teach others how to do them.
- Acts of Kindness Challenge: Create a group challenge where participants complete and share acts of kindness throughout the day.
- Gratitude Tree: Set up a tree where individuals can hang notes of gratitude for the people and experiences they cherish.
- Passion Discovery Workshops: Offer sessions where participants can try new activities, like painting, cooking, or learning an instrument.
A Message of Hope
For those grieving, feeling isolated, or navigating treatment, Valentine’s Day can be a time to reflect on the love that exists in many forms—love for oneself, love for life, and love found in community. Recreational therapists can play a key role in reshaping how individuals perceive this day, helping them move from a focus on what’s missing to a celebration of what’s possible.
This February, let’s inspire others to find joy in the small moments, cultivate meaningful connections, and ignite a passion for life that lasts far beyond the holiday. Together, we can turn Valentine’s Day into a celebration of hobbies, kindness, and the incredible potential for growth and happiness within every individual.4o
February Activity Ideas
1. Black History Month – Inspirational Art Collage
Supplies Needed:
- Magazines, newspapers, and printed quotes/images of influential Black leaders and artists
- Scissors
- Glue sticks
- Large poster boards or individual sheets of paper
- Markers and crayons
Instructions:
- Introduce participants to the significance of Black History Month.
- Provide quotes and images of influential Black leaders, inventors, artists, and cultural moments.
- Encourage participants to create a collage on the theme of “Empowerment and Inspiration.”
- Share completed collages in a group discussion.
2. Groundhog Day – “Will the Groundhog See Its Shadow?” Game
Supplies Needed:
- Paper groundhog cutouts
- A flashlight
- Cardboard props (trees, clouds, or sun)
- Whiteboard or large paper to record predictions
Instructions:
- Discuss Groundhog Day traditions.
- Set up a playful scene with a flashlight acting as the sun, creating a shadow for the paper groundhog.
- Allow participants to predict whether the groundhog will see its shadow.
- Compare predictions and encourage a discussion about weather patterns and folklore.
3. National Library Lover’s Month – Build a Book Nook
Supplies Needed:
- Shoeboxes
- Construction paper
- Markers and crayons
- Glue, tape, and scissors
- Miniature figurines, small LED lights (optional)
Instructions:
- Discuss the importance of libraries and favorite books.
- Give each participant a shoebox to create a mini “book nook.”
- Encourage creativity with themes inspired by their favorite stories or library spaces.
- Display the book nooks in a shared space.
4. Random Acts of Kindness Day (Feb. 17) – “Kindness Tree”
Supplies Needed:
- A large poster or bulletin board
- Cut-out paper leaves
- Markers or pens
- Tape or glue
Instructions:
- Draw or print a large tree without leaves on a poster.
- Ask participants to write one kind act they’ve done or plan to do on a paper leaf.
- Attach leaves to the tree to create a “Kindness Tree.”
- Share stories about acts of kindness to inspire others.
5. Super Bowl Sunday – Tabletop Football Tournament
Supplies Needed:
- Foldable paper footballs
- Tables
- Tape to create goalposts
- Scorecards
Instructions:
- Teach participants how to fold a paper football.
- Set up tables with goalposts made from tape.
- Organize a tournament, scoring points based on accuracy.
- Award small prizes to winners, such as bookmarks or stickers.
6. Presidents’ Day – “Design Your Own Coin” Contest
Supplies Needed:
- Paper circles or coin templates
- Crayons, markers, or colored pencils
- Glitter, glue, and other decorations
Instructions:
- Discuss the history of Presidents’ Day and the significance of coins in honoring leaders.
- Provide templates for participants to design their own commemorative coin.
- Share finished designs and discuss why they chose specific symbols or leaders.
7. National Umbrella Day (Feb. 10) – Umbrella Decorating
Supplies Needed:
- White paper parasols or small umbrellas (can be paper or fabric)
- Paint, brushes, markers, and stickers
- Aprons or table covers
Instructions:
- Introduce the concept of umbrellas as a symbol of protection and creativity.
- Provide supplies for participants to decorate their own umbrellas.
- Display completed umbrellas or allow participants to take them home as keepsakes.
8. Lantern Festival (Feb. 24, 2025) – Make a Paper Lantern
Supplies Needed:
- Colored construction paper
- Scissors
- Glue or tape
- Markers
- LED tea lights (optional)
Instructions:
- Share the cultural significance of the Lantern Festival.
- Provide instructions for cutting and assembling paper lanterns.
- Allow participants to personalize their lanterns with decorations and designs.
- Display lanterns or use them for a group celebration.
9. World Nutella Day (Feb. 5) – Nutella Snack Creation
Supplies Needed:
- Bread, crackers, or rice cakes
- Nutella
- Sliced fruit (bananas, strawberries, etc.)
- Plastic knives
Instructions:
- Provide a brief history of Nutella.
- Offer ingredients for participants to create unique snacks.
- Encourage sharing recipes or snack ideas with the group.
10. National Inventors’ Day (Feb. 11) – “Invent a Gadget” Challenge
Supplies Needed:
- Recyclable materials (cardboard, bottles, caps, etc.)
- Tape, glue, and scissors
- Markers and paper for sketches
Instructions:
- Share stories about famous inventors and their inventions.
- Provide materials for participants to design and build a new gadget.
- Ask participants to present their inventions to the group.
Book of the Month
Let Them! A Game-Changer for Recreational Therapists
This February, Rec Therapy Today is thrilled to feature The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins as our Book of the Month. This powerful book presents a simple yet transformative mindset shift: instead of trying to control, persuade, or change others—just let them. Through real-life stories and practical insights, Robbins teaches readers how to embrace emotional freedom, reduce stress, and focus on what truly matters.
Why This Book is a Must-Read for Recreational Therapists
As recreational therapists, we often work with individuals facing significant emotional, behavioral, and social challenges. It’s natural to want to help our clients make positive choices, but we also know that growth happens when people take responsibility for their own actions. The Let Them Theory aligns with core RT principles such as autonomy, self-efficacy, and empowerment.
Here’s how this book can benefit RT professionals:
-
Enhancing Client-Centered Care: Instead of feeling frustrated when a client resists engagement, therapists can shift their focus to creating meaningful opportunities for participation. If a client isn’t ready, let them be where they are while keeping the door open for when they are.
-
Reducing Professional Burnout: RTs are compassionate individuals who often take on the emotional burdens of those they serve. This book helps shift the mindset from “fixing” to “supporting”, reducing stress and emotional fatigue.
-
Strengthening Therapeutic Boundaries: A key takeaway from Robbins’ book is learning to let go of situations beyond your control. This is invaluable for therapists managing group dynamics, family pressures, or administrative challenges in healthcare settings.
-
Empowering Clients to Take Ownership: Instead of forcing participation, The Let Them Theory encourages a shift toward intrinsic motivation. When individuals choose to engage on their own terms, they experience greater joy, confidence, and self-efficacy.
Final Thoughts
Mel Robbins’ The Let Them Theory is a powerful tool for anyone in the helping profession. By embracing this simple yet profound mindset, recreational therapists can build stronger therapeutic relationships, enhance their own well-being, and create a more empowering environment for those they serve. This February, we encourage you to dive into this book and explore how letting go can lead to better outcomes for both you and your clients.
What do you think? Have you read The Let Them Theory? Share your thoughts with us in our Rec Therapy Today community!
Game of the Month
Fast-Paced Fun for Cognitive and Social Engagement
For the February 2025 issue of Rec Therapy Today, we are excited to feature The Uzzle as our Game of the Month! The Uzzle is a fast-paced, engaging game that challenges players to match patterns using a set of brightly colored blocks. With 100 unique puzzles spanning four levels of difficulty, this game is designed for players of all ages to test their observation skills, quick thinking, and hand-eye coordination.
How to Play Each player receives a set of blocks and a pattern card. The goal is to be the fastest to arrange the blocks to match the pattern on the card. As players progress, the difficulty increases, making it an excellent game for cognitive stimulation and problem-solving. The game is suitable for kids, teens, and adults, making it a versatile addition to any recreational therapy program.
Therapeutic Benefits of The Uzzle
-
Cognitive Stimulation – Encourages pattern recognition, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
-
Fine Motor Skill Development – Players must manipulate blocks with precision, enhancing dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
-
Social Interaction – Promotes teamwork, healthy competition, and communication in group settings.
-
Emotional Regulation – Helps build distress tolerance by encouraging players to stay calm under pressure.
-
Fun & Engagement – Keeps participants motivated and entertained, making it an excellent tool for both structured and leisure-based interventions.
Perfect for Recreational Therapy Settings The Uzzle is an ideal game for recreational therapists working in a variety of settings, including mental health facilities, schools, rehabilitation centers, and community programs. It fosters cognitive flexibility, patience, and adaptability—all key skills for personal growth and development.
Whether you’re looking to boost cognitive engagement, strengthen fine motor skills, or create a fun and interactive group experience, The Uzzle is a fantastic addition to your recreational therapy toolkit.
Have you used The Uzzle in your sessions? We’d love to hear your experiences! Share your thoughts with us at Rec Therapy Today and join the conversation.
Rec Therapist of the Month:
Vicky Pitner
Location: Homosassa, Florida
Education: B.S. in Therapeutic Recreation, University of Tennessee, Knoxville (1979)
Certifications:
- Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS)
- Certified Dementia Practitioner
- Certified Montessori Dementia Care Professional
- Certified Holistic Life Coach
- Health Rhythm Group Empowerment Drumming Facilitator
- Eden Alternative Associate Training
- Certified Parent Educator
Professional Memberships: ATRA, NCTRC
Awards:
- Four Star Award, Tennessee Parks and Recreation Association
- Award of Excellence, Community Programming, California Parks and Recreation Society
A Passion for Play and Healing
For Vicky Pitner, the power of play was a guiding force in her own life, helping her navigate challenges and build confidence. That experience led her to the field of therapeutic recreation, where she has dedicated her career to improving lives through creativity, self-expression, and meaningful engagement.
Specializing in neurocognitive disabilities, Vicky works with adults and families affected by dementia, while also continuing to support children with disabilities. Using an eco-psychosocial approach, she integrates expressive arts—including poetry, storytelling, journaling, improvisation, music, movement, visual arts, drama, and mindfulness—to foster deep personal growth and connection.
“I love the flexibility and the vast number of interventions we can use in recreational therapy,” Vicky shares. “There are so many ways to support individuals in meaningful and impactful ways.”
A Vision for the Future
Vicky sees tremendous potential for recreational therapy in the realm of dementia care and family support. She believes the profession can play a key role in raising awareness, providing education, and developing inclusive community services for individuals living with neurocognitive disabilities.
“Recreational therapy can be a game changer—not just for people living with dementia, but for their loved ones as well,” she explains. “By supporting both individuals and families, we can enhance quality of life and create more dementia-friendly communities.”
Advice for New Recreational Therapists
For those just entering the profession, Vicky emphasizes lifelong learning and specialization as keys to professional growth.
“Gaining additional training and certifications in areas that interest you will enrich your practice and expand your opportunities,” she advises. “Fields like fitness, trauma-informed care, expressive arts, and dementia training can open doors to new and meaningful ways to serve others.”
One of her inspirations in the field is Marcia Jean Carter, a trailblazer in therapeutic recreation who was the first chair of the NCTRC and a leading expert on inclusion. “Her contributions to the field are incredible, and I continue to apply her teachings in my work.”
A Commitment to Education and Advocacy
Beyond her direct work with clients, Vicky is also a published author. Her recent book, The LOVE Approach to Living with Dementia, reflects her dedication to improving dementia care. She encourages fellow recreational therapists to share their knowledge through writing and contribute to the broader professional dialogue.
“As recreational therapists, we engage with human experiences on a deep emotional level,” she says. “We have so much wisdom to share with one another and the world.”
Engaged with the Rec Therapy Community
Vicky is an active supporter of Rec Therapy Today, particularly appreciating the variety of CEU opportunities available.
“Danny offers such a diverse range of professional workshops and trainings at a very reasonable cost,” she says. “He is a true leader in our field, providing cutting-edge continuing education in a user-friendly format.”
Celebrating Vicky Pitner
We are honored to feature Vicky Pitner as our February 2025 Rec Therapist of the Month. Her passion, innovation, and commitment to advancing dementia care exemplify the best of recreational therapy. Congratulations, Vicky, and thank you for all you do to make a difference!
🌟 Be Featured as Rec Therapy Today’s Rec Therapist of the Month! 🌟
Are you passionate about recreational therapy?
Do you want to inspire others in the field?
Here’s your chance to shine!
It’s easy to apply:
✅ Answer a few simple questions.
✅ Share your story and insights.
✅ Submit and let us celebrate YOU!
Your work makes a difference—let us highlight your dedication and inspire others in the RT community. Apply now and take the spotlight as a Rec Therapist of the Month!
✨ You deserve to be recognized! ✨
Introducing Rec Therapy Today’s YouTube Channel
Danny Pettry’s Corner
Happy Recreational Therapy Month! 🎉
It’s been a snowy start to the year here in West Virginia. The winter wonderland has been beautiful, but I have to admit—I’m glad to be thawing out! The colder days have given me the perfect excuse to curl up with a good book. I’ve set a personal goal to read 60 books before 2025, and I’m steadily making my way through the list.
I’m also hard at work on new content for Rec Therapy Today! One big project I’m focusing on this year is creating 1,000 short (60-second) educational clips for recreational therapists. That sounds like a huge number, but I’m tackling it one step at a time, aiming for at least five new videos each month.
Thank you for all you do to make a difference through recreational therapy. Whether you’re using play, movement, creative expression, or adventure to help others heal and grow, you’re putting the “heart” in Rec Therapy. Keep up the great work!
Stay warm and keep playing.
Your friend,
Danny
Rec Therapy Today® Can Help You Earn All of Your Rec Therapy CEUs from the Comfort and Convenience of Your Own Home or Office™
Fun Pages for all Ages
Grab Your Rec Therapy Today Sweater for the Winter
Check Out What’s Been Sent Our Way to Share!
Living the Dream: A Career as a Recreational Therapist at Assisted Independence
When you were 15, could you imagine designing your dream job and actually living it one day? For one passionate recreational therapist, that dream became a reality at Assisted Independence, where every day is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.
As a Home and Community-Based Recreational Therapist, every day is filled with variety and fulfillment. From working with individuals of all ages and abilities to creating unique adaptations for accessibility and fun, this role embodies everything a dream job could be. Whether it’s turning therapeutic interventions into enjoyable games or fostering creative solutions to make community activities inclusive, the opportunities to inspire and be inspired are endless.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the job is building meaningful relationships—not just with the individuals served, but with their families and coworkers as well. These connections foster a supportive, collaborative environment that makes each day fulfilling and exciting.
If you’re passionate about making a difference and want a career that’s equally rewarding with competitive pay and benefits, this could be your calling. Assisted Independence offers a supportive environment for professionals dedicated to helping individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities achieve their goals and enjoy their communities.
Interested in joining this incredible team? Apply today!
👉 Apply Here
About Assisted Independence
Located in Indiana, Assisted Independence is a W-2 employer providing home and community-based services to individuals on the Medicaid Waiver. Their mission is to empower individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities by delivering high-quality, personalized support.
Make a difference and live your dream—one creative solution at a time!
Spotlight Feature: 12 Steps to Sober Leisure: Revised Edition
Author: Abagail Bernard
Contributor: Valerie Lazzara Mould, MA, CTRS-BH
When Abagail Bernard first created 12 Steps to Sober Leisure in 2012, her goal was clear: to provide individuals in early recovery with a practical, engaging resource to help them rediscover the joy of leisure and its vital role in maintaining sobriety. The workbook gained widespread recognition, being embraced by recovery communities and professionals across the United States and beyond.
Now, in the Revised Edition, Bernard has expanded the scope of her original work to include young people in recovery, addressing the unique challenges they face. The workbook introduces new topics, current information, and interactive exercises that inspire self-discovery and provide tools for cultivating meaningful, sober leisure activities. Readers will uncover how leisure impacts their well-being, offering a path to rediscovering joy, peace, and happiness in their lives.
This invaluable resource is not only accessible to individuals in recovery but also serves as a critical tool for therapists, counselors, mental health professionals, and caregivers. From interactive worksheets to thought-provoking exercises, the Revised Edition equips both professionals and individuals with the tools needed to enhance recovery journeys and overall life satisfaction.
Why It Matters to Recreational Therapy
Recreational therapists, like Bernard herself, understand the transformative power of leisure in mental health and recovery. This workbook embodies that understanding, offering structured, evidence-based approaches that align perfectly with the values of recreational therapy. It’s an essential addition to any therapeutic toolkit, promoting self-discovery, resilience, and a higher quality of life.
Get Your Copy Today
- Visit 12stepstosoberleisure.com
- Available on Amazon
Whether you’re a professional seeking resources for your clients or an individual on the path to recovery, 12 Steps to Sober Leisure: Revised Edition is a guide to regaining joy, peace, and happiness—one step at a time.
About the Author
Abagail Bernard is a dedicated advocate for the recovery community, blending her expertise as a recreational therapist with her passion for creating accessible resources for individuals in need. The Revised Edition also features contributions from Valerie Lazzara Mould, MA, CTRS-BH, whose insights and expertise enrich this updated version.
Let 12 Steps to Sober Leisure: Revised Edition guide you or your clients toward a brighter, more fulfilling future.
Summary of “Introduction to Qigong as a Recreational Therapy Program”
By Wai Ling Ho, CTRS, Health Specialist (January 29, 2025)
Qigong, a traditional Chinese medicine practice developed thousands of years ago, focuses on body movement, breath control, and posture to promote health and well-being. One form of Qigong, Eight Pieces Brocade (Ba Duan Jin), involves standing movements that differ from Tai Chi, which incorporates continuous motion and controlled breathing. Eight Pieces Brocade has been practiced since the Song Dynasty and was widely spread during the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
Research indicates that Qigong offers significant health benefits, including improved bone health, cardiopulmonary fitness, self-efficacy, and fall prevention (Lin et al., 2010). As an evidence-based practice, Qigong supports both physical and mental wellness.
A study of 25 participants (ages 40 to 90) attending a weekly Qigong group for one to three years showed that the practice contributes to physical, cognitive, social, and emotional well-being. Some participants attended both Tai Chi and Eight Pieces Brocade classes, while others focused on one. All participants reported positive health outcomes and expressed enjoyment in the practice, which motivated them to continue.
This report highlights Qigong as a valuable recreational therapy tool for improving overall well-being through gentle movement and mindfulness.
Submit Your News to the Rec Therapy Today Newsletter and Blog
We’re always looking for new ways to showcase the incredible work recreational therapists like you are doing. That’s why we’re inviting you to share your insights, stories, and ideas with Rec Therapy Today!
Do you have a special program, activity, or success story you’d like to highlight? Perhaps you have tips, resources, or professional advice to inspire your fellow rec therapists?
Now’s your chance to be featured in our newsletter or on our blog!
Whether it’s a brief tip, a heartfelt story, or a unique program idea, your contribution can make a big impact in our community.
Why share?
- Showcase your creativity and expertise.
- Inspire others in the field of recreational therapy.
- Connect with our vibrant and supportive RT community.
We can’t wait to see what you’ll share! Thank you for helping us keep the rec therapy conversation alive and thriving.
Follow Rec Therapy Today on Social Media
Click on the logo and follow Rec Therapy Today:
The Danny P. 100% CEU Guarantee
Our February 2024 Winners
🎉 Announcing the Winners of Our Rec Therapy T-Shirt Giveaway! 🎉
Congratulations to the 15 lucky winners who were randomly selected to receive a Rec Therapy Today T-shirt! No purchase was required to enter, and purchasing did not increase the odds of winning.
Here are our winners:
- Terri P., Killeen, Texas
- Aubrie B., Porter, Texas
- Kitty D., Tustin, California
- Evelyn M., Valrico, Florida
- Amber B., Atoka, Tennessee
- Shaneil, Amityville, New York
- Jean F., San Diego, California
- Misty W., Memphis, Tennessee
- Michelle M., Middlefield, Ohio
- Beth E., Versailles, Kentucky
- Mary N., Meriden, Connecticut
- Kathy P., Sacramento, California
- Phoenix D., Sacramento, California
- Emilie McE., Lansdale, Pennsylvania
Canadian Winner:
Taylor, Ontario
Your Rec Therapy Today T-shirt will be on its way soon! We encourage our winners to send us a photo of themselves rocking their new T-shirt for a chance to be featured on our social media pages and in the next newsletter!
💙 To everyone who entered: thank you for being a part of the Rec Therapy Today community. Stay tuned—there are more exciting giveaways coming throughout the year!
Remember, you’re all winners because you make a difference in people’s lives every day.
February 2025 Contest —
🎉 Rec Therapy Today’s February Giveaway! 🎉
We’re celebrating Recreational Therapy Month with another exciting giveaway! This time, 10 lucky winners will each receive a $10 Amazon gift card to use on anything they choose!
📌 Here’s how it works:
✅ 9 winners will be selected from the U.S.
✅ 1 winner will be selected from Canada.
✅ No purchase required—everyone has an equal chance to win!
✅ Purchasing does NOT increase your odds of winning.
✅ Winners will be selected using a random number generator to ensure fairness.
📅 Entry Deadline: Be sure to enter before midnight on [insert deadline date]!
Don’t miss this chance to win! Enter today and help us spread the word about Recreational Therapy Month. 🎉💚 #RecTherapyMonth #Giveaway #RecTherapyToday