Entertaiment is not a one-size-fits-all concept, and its forms vary as much as the people who seek them out. Some enjoy simple, light-hearted entertainment, like a comedy show or playground, while others may prefer the more cerebral entertainment of a documentary or puzzle game that engages the intellect and requires strategic thinking. Entertainment can be a stress-buster, as it helps reduce cortisol levels and improve mood by evoking positive emotions. It can also be cathartic, cleansing the mind of negative emotions by allowing people to experience a range of feelings in a safe setting. This is sometimes known as “emotional detox.”

This article was originally published on The Conversation.