This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24 ESV

In today’s devotional Downs tells about how intentional leisure (‘play’) is restorative for us as it sits contrast to our regular work and commitments. Do you believe in the importance of play? Do you make time to be with people you love and like to enjoy one another? What is play for you? laughing? playing a game? creating something together? making music? How often do you intentionally play?

Downs’ example today is one that followed a specifically hard time for a team, but perhaps play is a way to release the everyday kind of tension too. Gratitude journals are currently popular as a way to focus our thoughts on positive parts of our day. Perhaps by intentionally scheduling ‘play’ we give ourselves permission to experience joy–cheerfulness is good for us after all. (Proverbs 17:22).

What will you do to bring yourself joy today?