When is the last time you laughed? I mean, really laughed?
Photo by Marcela Rogante on Unsplash
I get it—it’s hard to laugh right now with all that’s going on in the world. Most days, these days, it’s hard to find anything that’s funny.
But maybe that’s when we need it most of all?
They say that laughter is the best medicine (a paraphrase of Proverbs 17:20), and research has in fact comfirmed it. Laughter is good for the body, mind, and spirit.
According to the Mayo Clinic, laughter has health benefits like these:
Stimulates your organs, such as your lungs, heart, and muscles
Releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones
Relieves stress and helps you relax
Improves your immune system
Improves your mood
Helps you connect with others
All good things for sure.
So, what makes you laugh?
I like language or word-play humor.
Last year during the shutdown, funny memes on Facebook, like the one above and the photo below, helped me laugh.
And of course, every dog owner can relate to this cartoon.
I also came across an Instagram/Facebook account, @LivefromSnackTime, that listed funny things kids say. Kids are always good for a laugh, aren’t they? Here are some of my favorites:
“I’ll just take a nap, that’s how you solve that.” Kiera, 7 years old
“I’m too sad for pants.” Jameson, 2 years old
“I have a lot to say, maybe you should get some popcorn.” Anon 6 years old
“I did not mean to do that face out loud.” Anon, 9 years old
“I don’t care and I’m not getting any more cares today.” Anon, 7 years old
“My life is not going as planned.” Sophia, 6 years old
“When I get out of timeout, I will enjoy the rest of my life.” Anon, 6 years old
“These are my night pajamas, and these are my day pajamas.” Anon 8 years old
Of course, what makes me laugh might not make you laugh. But most people agree that it’s impossible to hear a baby laughing and not join in. Try it here and let me know if you keep a straight face.
Friends, do yourself a favor—your body, mind, and spirit—and look for things that make you laugh: videos, movies, shows, comedians; funny books, joke books, cartoons; even your favorite kiddo or goofy dog.
Talk to and spend time with people who make you laugh; you will both feel better.
Two of my good friends and my husband’s family can find the humor in almost any situation, even if we’re sometimes laughing through tears. I’m grateful for that gift. They have all taught me to never underestimate the healing power of a good laugh.
When is the last time you laughed? How can you add laughter to your life this week?
At Glimsen, I share glimpses of the beauty around us in nature, the arts, and the unexpected. Click the green button below to get my posts delivered to your inbox once a week, and you'll also get a little printable gift of beauty just for signing up.
