A Study on the Utilization of Sri Lankan Folk Games for Release from Mental Stress

Abstract

Mental depression is a contemporary problem spread widely not only in Sri Lanka but also all over the world. As shown by many scientists the life style of the present day human has greatly influenced this issue. When we study the ancient Sri Lankan people in their cultural and social background we realize that they enjoyed a great mental freedom. We can find evidence for this on ancient literary works on literature, religion and folk life Historical sources of Sri Lanka can be traced back to the Rawana era. From that period upto 1500 AD the Sri Lankan economy, Art, Architecture and irrigation technology have amazed scientists all over the world. Few examples for these are ancient herbal gardens, the Parakrama Samudraya, Seegiriya and the stone sculpturea of Polonnaruwa. In order to show forth such abilities the people should have been healthy both physically and mentally. When researching on the Sri Lankan folk life a variety of information can be found games.