Joy Is Meant to Be Shared: The Soul Care Power of Play #174

August 04, 2025

00:00 16:24

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In today’s busy, burnout-prone world, joy can feel like a luxury. But here’s a surprising truth: nearly 1 in 3 adults hasn’t shared a meal with someone outside their household in over a month. And yet, science shows that simple connection — like eating together or laughing over a board game — is one of the most powerful ways to restore our emotional well-being.

In this episode, you’ll learn why joy is meant to be shared — and how God uses ordinary moments of togetherness to calm your nervous system, lift your mood, and spark healing from the inside out. You’ll discover the soul care science behind connection and the spiritual invitation to let joy back in — not someday, but now.

Key Takeaways: 
The neuroscience of why shared meals reduce stress and increase connection 
How playing a board game boosts dopamine and builds joy 
 A grace-filled perspective on hospitality that makes it easier to invite others in 
Why ordinary moments of joy are some of the most sacred
A two-part soul care tip to help you glow from the inside out — no perfection needed

Breath Prayer: 
Inhale: they broke bread together
Exhale: with glad and sincere hearts

Scripture: “They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts.” Acts 2:46

Join NEW Wellness Course: Breathe Joy with Jesus: Creating Happy, Healthy Habits with God's Promises. Register at mysoulcareschool.com

FREE Calming Crochet Bonus - sign up at mysoulcareschool.com!

→ Take the FREE Soul Care Quiz at soulcarequiz.com
Get your free personal wellness assessment and learn which area of wellness you need most.

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Meet Your Host

Bonnie Gray is the author of Finding Spiritual Whitespace and Whispers of Rest. An inspirational speaker and retreat leader, she has touched thousands of lives through storytelling, visual arts, nature, prayer and meditation. Bonnie’s writing is featured at Relevant Magazine, (in)courage, and Christianity Today. She lives in California with her husband and their two sons.