Is the work stress making you lose your mind? Is your partner ignoring you again? Are you tired of reading about violence in the world? There can be many things in life that can stop you from laughing. But you should try to laugh more as it can have many positive effects on your health. So, on World Laughter Day, which is celebrated on first Sunday of May, let us find out simple tips to increase laughter and happiness in our life.
Health Shots reached out to psychotherapist, life and business coach Dr Chandni Tugnait, who says laughter is an integral part of life and has immense long-term health benefits. Laughter can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, improve mood and boost immunity. It basically activates endorphins in the brain, which are associated with happiness and well-being.
How to laugh more easily
Yes, laughter is the best medicine, and in today’s busy life, it’s essential to take a break and laugh out loud. Here are ways to do it:
1. Spend time with friends and family
Spending quality time with friends and family helps to reduce stress, says Dr Tugnait. Enjoy life’s little moments, and make happy memories with your loved ones. Being around people who you care about and that share your sense of humour can make you laugh, leading to positive physiological changes.
2. Watch comedy shows and movies
Watching good comedy shows or movies can be entertaining and also an effortless way to add more laughter to your life. Laughing at funny characters and their circumstances can help lighten to your mood and reduce stress.
3. Try laughter yoga
Laughter yoga is an exceptional form of exercise that promotes laughter and relaxation. This technique combines laughter with deep breathing and stretching to improve physical and emotional well-being, says the expert. Consider joining a laughter yoga class or do it at home by watching YouTube videos.
4. Read funny books
Reading humorous books, comics, or jokes is a good way to bring laughter into your life. Funny books can also provide a stress-relieving escape from reality.
5. Share funny videos and memes
Nowadays, families and friends are part of mobile messaging apps. So, share funny videos, pictures, and memes with friends and family there. It is a light-hearted way to spread laughter and happiness.
6. Attend stand-up comedy shows
Stand-up comedy shows are getting popular, especially in big cities. Such shows are a great way to meet new people and have a good laugh. You can laugh with the audience while appreciating local comedians’ craft.
7. Play games
Playing fun games with co-workers, friends, family, or strangers can bring smiles and laughter. There are many fun board games or you can even check out some of the games online.
8. Spend time with children or pets
Spending time with children or pets can help you laugh more often. Children are frequent sources of funny observations, and pets are natural entertainers. The blend of innocence and playfulness will induce uncontrollable laughter, says the expert.
9. Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness allows you to focus on the present moment and enjoy small pleasures. When you focus on the present moment, you often encounter funny moments, leading to laughter.
You can even work on your sense of humour. Once you learn to see humour in everyday life, it will decrease the need to have significant events for amusement as the regular day-to-day events become more interesting.