Laugh More!

I just recently recorded an episode of my podcast (Your Emotional Support Podcast). This episode was all about laughter and I wanted to clue you all in on the greatness that is laughter as well.

We've all heard the saying "Laughter is the best medicine," right? It turns out, it's sooooo true!

I Googled the origin of the quote and this is what Gemini generated:

The exact origin of the phrase "laughter is the best medicine" is unknown, but the concept of laughter's positive impact on health has been around for a long time. The idea is echoed in Proverbs 17:22 of the King James Bible, which states, "A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones". Additionally, scientific studies have demonstrated the physiological benefits of laughter, such as the release of endorphins, which can help alleviate pain and improve mood. 

I am going to go ahead and say the bible is ordering us to laugh!

But seriously, the benefits of laughter are huge.

So, why is laughter so great?

• Well, first of all ~ it's free! It's self-care that we can access anytime, anywhere.

• It is scientifically proven to make us feel better. Laughter releases endorphins.

  • Endorphins are naturally produced chemicals (hormones) in the body that act as natural pain relievers and mood boosters. They are released in response to stress, pain, or pleasurable activities, and help reduce pain, stress, and improve well-being. 

  • It is also known to reduce cortisol levels (stress hormone) and improve your immunity!

• It's contagious. My absolute favorite is when little kids laugh. Tell me you don't start laughing (even if it's just in your head) when you hear a three year old hysterically laughing!

  
  

I want you to take this blog post and use it as your permission slip to laugh whenever, wherever, and for however long you need to. I'll even provide you with this little Laughter Starter Pack ~ use this if you need help getting started or just bookmark it for whenever you need a little pick-me-up!

Honestly speaking though, you don't need permission to laugh and feel good about yourself. Laughter should be used at any and all times. My family is great at using humor at inappropriate times but I will tell you that laughter through tears is the absolute best emotion. I think it was Truvy in Steel Magnolias who first said that (or something similar). But really, when you are going through something awful and your best friend comes over to comfort you and then trips on her way to the bathroom and you both end up rolling on the floor laughing. Tell me that isn't the best!

My point is - we should all be laughing more. Laugh every single day. Laugh even when nothing is funny. I guarantee if you start fake laughing, after about 30 seconds you will be actually laughing.

Do it! Laugh! Life is already too short to be serious all the time!