Nighttime recreational activity as daily recovery: implications for good sleep and life satisfaction

This study investigates how nighttime recreational activity influences participants’ recovery, sleep quality, and life satisfaction through restorative experiences. Grounded in Attention Restoration Theory (ART) and the Recovery Experience Framework, the research examines the mechanisms linking restorative experience to well-being outcomes. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire from nighttime recreational activity participants, measuring restorative experience, recovery experience (relaxation, psychological detachment, and mastery), good sleep, and life satisfaction using validated 5-point Likert scales. Structural equation modelling (SEM) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were employed to test hypotheses and assess reliability and validity. Results indicate that restorative experience positively enhances recovery experience, which subsequently improves sleep quality and life satisfaction. Moreover, recovery experience and good sleep mediate the relationship between restorative experience and life satisfaction. This study extends ART and the Recovery Experience Framework to evening leisure contexts, highlighting the psychological and physiological benefits of nighttime recreational activity, and provides practical insights for promoting holistic well-being through structured leisure interventions.