Have you ever experienced a good, gut-wrenching belly laugh? One that was uncontrollable and potentially made you laugh even more? Have you ever laughed in the midst of being so irritated with someone or something? My guess is laughing helped reduce the irritability in the moment.
Research says that laughing can help with improving overall wellbeing, reducing unpleasant emotion, and directly impacting our mental health. It also assists with decreasing pain, promoting muscle relaxation, and reducing stress hormones. What does this all mean? It sounds like we need to pencil in a little pleasure.
“Always laugh when you can. It is cheap medicine” – Lord Byron
Here are a few ways to strengthen that funny bone of yours:
- Read a joke book or something humorous
- Put together a collection of things that make you smile or laugh
- Listen to an funny audiobook while driving or walking
- Watch or listen to comedy
- Try laughing at everyday hassles vs. dwelling on them
- Channel your inner child and do something silly
- Laugh with others
To self-disclose, as someone who isn’t always the most graceful and at times struggles with balancing, riding a bike for the first time in 20 years was an activity that brought me so much joy and laughter. It truly was the best medicine!
Want more information? Check out these websites below:
- Create Joy and Satisfaction | Mental Health America (mhanational.org)
- 5 Reasons You Should Laugh Everyday - The Heart Foundation
