In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to overlook the simple yet profound act of laughter. Beyond its surface-level entertainment value, laughter carries an extraordinary power—the power to cultivate joy. In our current post-COVID era, this is an incredibly important resource to tap into. Kaiser Family Foundation reported an increase of anxiety and depression symptoms in adults from 10% to 30% in the last several years. It’s never been more important to cultivate joy, and nothing says joy like laughter!

A short history of humor:

There are several theories of the origin of humor among humans. One of the oldest theories dates back to Greek philosophers (think Plato) who proposed that humans find humor in and enjoy laughing at earlier versions of themselves. How many of us have had those reliving-the-past conversations with family or friends where we laugh at our own crazy antics of our youth? Yup. Us too.

Many years later, Sigmund Freud popularized the idea that laughter serves as a release-valve, allowing us to let off steam or “nervous energy.” Seems legit. There’s also the theory of incongruity, aka, the difference between expectations and reality.

‘nuff said. Regardless of how or why humans engage in humor, there’s absolutely no doubt as to its benefits!

The Science of Laughter:

Studies using neuroimaging techniques show that the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for decision-making and social behavior, lights up during laughter. When we laugh, our brains also release a cascade of feel-good neurotransmitters, like dopamine and endorphins. A neurological dance unfolds creating a natural elixir for our well-being unlike any other. The release of neurotransmitters like dopamine adds a layer of pleasure and reward to our experience.

Laughter is also unique because of the way it engages our entire body. As we laugh, our facial muscles activate, creating that contagious smile. The respiratory system kicks into high gear, with rapid inhalations and exhalations. Even our abdominal muscles get in on the action, contributing to the rhythmic contractions and expansions that characterize laughter.

The positive impact of laughter on mental and physical health is profound. Studies suggest that laughter can reduce stress hormones, boost the immune system, and contribute to an overall sense of well-being. The old adage "laughter is the best medicine" seems to hold scientific merit.

But what if laughter is more than just a physical reaction to humor? What if it's a transformative force that has the potential to reshape our daily experiences?

Laughter as a Social Glue:

Laughter is inherently social, transcending individual experiences. Maybe you’ve noticed how laughter has a magnetic quality, drawing people together in communal moments of joy. In fact, according to a study by Robert Provine of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, we laugh 30x more in community than we do when we’re alone. Shared laughter acts as a sort of social glue, fostering a sense of camaraderie and trust. It helps break down social barriers and contributes to the formation of strong interpersonal connections while weaving threads of joy through the fabric of our relationships. You’ve probably experienced this with your closest friends, or even coworkers. Nothing bonds us together like our shared inside jokes! When we explore the contagious nature of laughter, we find that the more we share our laughter, the more joy we create not just for ourselves but for those around us.

Embody Laughter:

Have you heard of Laughter Yoga? No, this is not an April Fools joke. Laughter Yoga is a revolutionary practice that marries the ancient art of laughter with the mindfulness of yoga. It may sound strange, but practicing intentional laughter, coupled with deep breathing exercises, can elevate your mood, reduce stress, and pave the way for a more joyful existence. Don’t take yourself too seriously. It's not just about finding humor in life; it's about creating joy through laughter, one intentional chuckle at a time.

Cultivating Joy in the Everyday:

In our quest for joy, it's essential to recognize that laughter is not reserved for grand occasions—it thrives in the everyday tapestry of our lives. In the face of life's challenges, laughter becomes a powerful coping mechanism. It acts as a natural stress reliever, offering a temporary escape from worries and creating a more positive mindset. When we can learn to find joy in the mundane, it gives us the opportunity to witness how laughter becomes a guiding force, helping us navigate the twists and turns with resilience and a lighthearted spirit.

In a world filled with challenges, embracing laughter as a means to cultivate joy becomes an act of resilience and self-care. Remember: joy is an inside job. Joy is simple, but it’s not just a fleeting emotion. It’s a choice. So, let's actively seek out moments of merriment, share a laugh with friends, and revel in the joy that connects us all.