Though we work to live, we often equate our existence with what we do rather than with who we are. Yet, the proper understanding of a human being is one who “is,” not one who does. Catholic German philosopher Josef Pieper, who wrote extensively on the topic, notes that leisure cannot be associated with an absence of activity or mere indulgence in what we deem restful activities. Instead, he teaches that leisure is a state of being, a way of life. It is “an attitude of the mind, a condition of the soul.”

For Pieper, true leisure entails “beholding” and “celebrating.” Authentic leisure slows our minds and bodies, unlocking a new way of beholding the world: we see everything through the eyes of God, and become struck with awe and wonder, marveling at God’s grandeur and beauty. Perhaps we may have experienced this when the beauty of a sunrise, a starry night, an inspiring work of art or a bird’s gentle song gave way to wonder and reflection.

This beholding leads to celebrating: it causes us to worship, rejoicing in God and his gifts. It raises our minds and hearts to God, enabling us to “pray at all times” as St. Paul instructs. (Eph. 6:18) Holy leisure resembles God’s rest on the seventh day of creation. As God contemplates his goodness in his work, so, too, do we experience leisure when we contemplate God’s goodness. Our souls were made to rest in God and gaze upon his goodness.

To cultivate this kind of leisure, we can ask ourselves: what restores us? What gives us life?

When tired, we often turn to mind-numbing activities. Yet afterward, these activities can leave us feeling empty and lacking in mental clarity and motivation. Authentic leisure, however, is life-giving and creative. It refreshes our weary souls, minds and bodies, and invites us to share in God’s creative work.

There are certain activities that naturally foster this restful and loving gaze which Pieper understands as leisure. Reading a thought-provoking book, walking in nature, taking a scenic drive, gazing at works of art, listening to musical masterpieces, marveling at creation’s beauty and engaging in intentional conversations create space for us to be struck by wonder, and to encounter God and praise him.

Once we encounter authentic leisure, it takes hold of us, and we desire to reflect God’s beauty and goodness, thus becoming co-creators with him. We respond by creating works of beauty: we use our talents to ponder and communicate beauty and foster wonder in others.

This summer, cultivate authentic leisure. Not only will you feel refreshed mentally, spiritually and physically, but you will also share in God’s creative action. Most importantly, you will experience a foretaste of the eternal rest for which we were created.