When in doubt, laugh it out.
Have you ever heard the saying, “Laughter is the best medicine?” According to the article “Laugh out Loud” in 101 Ways to Well-Being, laughter has several health benefits, including burning calories, reducing pain and stress, and improving blood flow. If you have ever been to a comedy show or a funny movie, you know laughter is also contagious. Just watch this video.
When challenges come our way, it is easy to feel burdened and overwhelmed. However, learning to laugh in the tough times can be a critical step to emotional wellness. Even if you have to fake a chuckle, studies show that your brain won’t be able to tell if the laughter is genuine or not.
Do you want to laugh, but can’t seem to find something to laugh about? There are a few different ways to add a chuckle to your day:
- Have a joke for every day. It’s easy with Readers Digest. Here is a starter joke:
A Canadian psychologist is selling a video that teaches you how to test your dog’s IQ.
Here’s how it works: If you spend $12.99 for the video, your dog is smarter than you. (Jay Leno)
- Surround yourself with people who like to laugh. This can also be helpful as it relates to social wellness as well.
- Channel your inner child. Wear a fake mustache, babysit a niece or nephew and play hide-and-seek, or make a funny face in the mirror.
- Go see a comedian.
- Watch animal videos. There’s something special about seeing a cat hanging on to a moving ceiling fan or these talking animals.
- Count the number of times you laugh. While adults usually laugh 15 times a day, kids laugh up to 200 times.
Laughter isn’t about denying the pain and struggles of life, but rather learning to see the bright side of even the cloudiest day. Give yourself permission to laugh this week, and see what it can do.
Laughter can be part of your safety and self-care plans. Our website has more details about how to create these plans.
Here’s hoping you find something to laugh about every day.