Collective Healing via Leisure Experiences on Holidays:A Case of Transnational Migrant Workers in Hong Kong
In contemporary society,the physical and mental well-being for migrant workers is significantly influenced by their active participation in holidays and leisure activities.These moments of respite serve as crucial escapes from the manifold challenges that define their daily lives.In this article,we embark on a comprehensive exploration of the intricate intersection between"transnational migrant worker"and"holiday leisure experiences",aiming to unearth novel insights concerning collective healing processes and the dynamics of micro-interactions.Our research focuses specifically on foreign domestic workers in the Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong,adopting a micro-sociological perspective that is complemented by the application of symbolic healing theory.Employing a comprehensive methodology that includes participatory observation and in-depth interviews,we bring to light the multifaceted therapeutic mechanisms that are intricately woven within the fabric of leisure experiences among transnational migrant workers.One of our pivotal findings underscores that migrant workers are not passive participants in their leisure activities but actively assume agency by organizing and constructing what we term the"third space"within these leisure contexts.This deliberate and conscious act empowers them,enabling a reclamation of control and decision-making authority over their daily lives,ultimately resulting in a significant enhancement of their psychological well-being.Our investigation also illuminates the central role played by holiday leisure activities in the lives of transnational migrant workers,where these activities often have deep-seated roots in kinship networks and geographical relationships.They provide a vital platform for these individuals to express their personal emotions and effectively regulate their interpersonal relationships,thus contributing to their overall emotional and social well-being.Within the realm of holiday leisure,we observe migrant workers engaging in a rich tapestry of rituals and natural contexts,frequently interwoven with symbolic symbols that carry personal and collective significance.It is through the integration and transformation of these collective contexts that individual healing processes manifest,characterized by self-expression and the regulation of interpersonal dynamics.Our research,grounded in the meticulous examination of micro-level collective interactions,leads us to reconceptualize leisure environments as distinct microsocial spaces that transcend the routines of everyday life.This innovative perspective deepens our understanding of the intricate interplay between leisure and healing,offering valuable insights and practical guidance for enhancing the overall quality of life for society as a whole,with an emphasis on promoting inclusivity and shared well-being.In summary,this article sheds illuminating light on the indispensable role that holidays and leisure activities play in the lives of migrant workers,underscoring their significant impact on well-being.By exploring the nexus between"transnational migrant worker"and"holiday leisure experiences",we unveil the complex dynamics of collective healing and micro-interactions.The findings presented herein offer a unique and comprehensive perspective on the interconnection between leisure and healing,providing valuable guidance for creating a more inclusive and harmonious society.
leisure and recreationholidayshealingsymbolismmigrant workers