"Today, fill your cup of life with sunshine, love and laughter." Sunshine Dreaming
How often do you laugh?
In today's often stressful and divisive world, laughter has become an increasingly vital coping mechanism and source of positivity. Laughter is a powerful and underrated tool for maintaining our overall health and well-being. Beyond the obvious benefits of simply feeling happier and more joyful, laughing has been scientifically proven to provide a wide range of physical and mental health advantages.
Laughter can have numerous beneficial effects on both the body and mind. Here are a few reasons to get laughing!
Laughter activates the parasympathetic nervous system
It counteracts the stress response and can lower cortisol levels, promoting relaxation and overall well-being.
Laughter releases endorphins and can reduce pain perception
Laughter can also stimulate circulation and aid muscle relaxation, both of which can help reduce some of the physical symptoms of stress.
Laughter has also been shown to improve mood states, which can positively impact the immune system.
It can also increase in heart rate and oxygen levels that occurs with laughter, and enhance vascular function and oxygen delivery to the body's cells.
And, probably best of all--laughter can foster social bonding and help alleviate feelings of isolation.
When we laugh with others, our brains release oxytocin, the "bonding" hormone that promotes feelings of trust and empathy. Additionally, the lightheartedness and positive emotions associated with laughter can have a powerful impact on our mental outlook, helping us maintain a sunnier disposition and approach life's challenges with greater resilience. In short, the simple act of laughing - whether at a silly joke, a beloved comedy, or just the absurdities of daily life - is an incredibly valuable tool for supporting our overall health, both inside and out.
"A person who knows how to laugh at himself will never cease to be amused." Shirley MacClain
Smile. Sound too simple, but it's true that smiling is contagious. "Mirror neurons," which play a key role in early human development, allow babies to mimic facial and emotional responses, firing in response to sensory input. Have you noticed how yawning can spread through a room? That's the work of mirror neurons. Smiling and laughter activate these mirror neurons in the brains of primates and humans.1 This is why sitcoms often use laugh tracks - hearing laughter makes us laugh too. So go ahead and laugh, and watch others join in.
Have some jokes or funny anecdotes ready to share. Research shows that people who can tell a good joke, or a good funny retelling of personal experiences and life's foibles, are viewed as more competent. However, as humor is subjective, be sure to know and read your audience.
Open to silliness. Cultivate ways to indulge in silliness more often. Children are great examples of letting ourselves be bowled over by silliness. Find ways to tickle your silly bone. A lot of adults don't want to be seen as silly, but when it's so health-positive, why not? Spend time with other adults who don't mind being silly with you to increase the silliness quotient.
Be a good sport. Self-deprecation can not only bring a smile, but also help diffuse tense situations. Being a good sport not only spreads joy, but can also help you be seen in a positive light by others.
Spend time with pets. Interacting with and petting pets, such as dogs, can provide numerous benefits. Stroking a dog has been shown to lower stress hormones and blood pressure, while also helping to alleviate symptoms of depression. Additionally, the joy and laughter that dogs can inspire can momentarily distract you from your troubles and worries.
Watch something funny. Watch a comedic movie, TV show or video online. Watch old home videos of when you were a child. There is always something funny to rediscover in those memories.
Practice laughter yoga. This practice involves prolonged voluntary laughter, which can release chemicals in the brain that boost your mood. Find more about Laughter Yoga here.
[source National Institute of Health]
As the late, great Maya Angelou said so simply..."I don't trust anyone who doesn't laugh!"
For more information on other ways I can help you lighten up and feel lighter and more positive about life...PLEASE CHECK OUT MY OFFERINGS FOR MORE INFORMATION.
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