Laughter is infectious and it also triggers healthy reactions in our bodies. It reduces stress and helps our muscles relax. There are so many benefits to enjoying a good laugh. It boosts our immune system and triggers the release of endorphins. Â Endorphins are neurotransmitters and resemble opiates in their ability to produce happy feelings.
When you’re laughing it’s impossible to feel anger or negative emotions. Laughter is positive all round and helps to shift perspective. Create more situations in your life that promote laughter.
Watch a funny movie, be silly or watch a comedian. Train yourself to see the funny side of life and you will be much happier for it. Be spontaneous and have more fun. Be less defensive and stop worrying that the world is out to get you. Imagine that everyone is wearing frilly panties or has marmite smeared behind their ears – anything that encourages you to see life less seriously.
Be open with others. We often feel that we are fundamentally different to others and keep our barriers and defenses up but when we show our more human side to others, it allows us to connect and feel bonded with others. Sharing a laugh with others is one of the best ways to enjoy life.
Playing with pets or children encourages us to be silly and let go of our inhibitions. Dance around the house, sing in the shower..all of these small actions can help increase your feeling of contentment.
So, if you want to laugh more – get better at laughing at yourself. Look for the funny side of a serious situation and remind yourself regularly to lighten up. Life is full of serious problems and hardships and one of the best ways to fight this and laugh a lot.
Robert Provine, a neuroscientist researched laughter and here are some of his findings:
– Laughter plays a big role in mating. A sense of humour is very attractive to the opposite sex
– Both sexes laugh a lot, but females laugh more–126 percent more than their male counterparts
– The laughter of the female is evidence that the relationship is healthy
– Laughter in relationships declines dramatically as people age
– Laughter is contagious; the more others laugh, the more we laugh too
Find things to laugh at, make it a big part of your life and you will find that you enjoy life much more than before.
Mandy X
Author: Mandy Kloppers
Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.
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