Why You Should Laugh More Every Day
If there’s one thing the world could use more of, it’s laughter. Think about the last time you laughed so hard your stomach hurt, tears rolled down your cheeks, and for a moment, everything else faded into the background. That kind of laughter—the unrestrained, full-bodied joy isn’t just good for the soul; it’s good for your body and mind too.
Laughter is often called the best medicine, and for good reason. It’s free, it’s contagious, and it has the power to transform the way we feel, think, and live. The world can feel heavy at times, laughter isn’t just a momentary escape it’s a lifeline.
So, let’s dive into why you should laugh more every day, the undeniable science behind its benefits, and how you can bring more laughter into your life.
The Science of Laughter Why It’s So Good for You
Laughter might feel like a silly, spontaneous act, but its effects on your health are dead serious (in the best way). Here’s what science has to say about the power of a good giggle:
1. Laughter Reduces Stress
When you laugh, your body releases endorphins the feel-good chemicals that help you relax and reduce stress. It also lowers cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress. In other words, laughter is like a mini holiday for your nervous system.
Fun Fact: A 2001 study published in Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine found that participants who watched a funny film experienced a 39% drop in cortisol levels. That’s the power of humour at work!
2. It Boosts Your Immune System
Laughter doesn’t just make you feel good; it strengthens your body too. Studies have shown that laughing increases the production of antibodies and activates immune cells, helping your body fight off illness.
Think of laughter as your body’s natural defence mechanism, like a superhero with a wicked sense of humour.
3. It’s Great for Your Heart
Laughter improves blood flow and increases oxygen intake, which is great for cardiovascular health. In fact, a 2005 study by the University of Maryland Medical Center found that people who laughed regularly had healthier blood vessels than those who didn’t.
laughter gets your heart racing in all the right ways and unlike exercise, you can do it sitting down.
4. It’s a Natural Painkiller
Ever laughed so hard you forgot about that nagging headache or sore muscle? That’s because laughter triggers the release of endorphins, which act as natural painkillers.
Comedian Tig Notaro, who famously used humour to talk about her cancer diagnosis, once said, “Laughter through tears is my favourite emotion.” Her story is a testament to how humour can help us process even the most difficult moments.
Laughter and Mental Health: Healing From the Inside Out
Beyond the physical benefits, laughter is a game-changer for your mental health.
It Reduces Anxiety and Depression: Laughing releases serotonin, the chemical that lifts your mood. It’s like nature’s antidepressant, minus the prescription.
It Builds Resilience: When life feels overwhelming, laughter helps you gain perspective. It reminds you not to take things too seriously and helps you bounce back from setbacks.
It Connects People: Ever laughed so hard with someone that you felt instantly closer? Shared laughter strengthens relationships and creates bonds that words alone can’t.
Laughter Changing Lives
Throughout history, people have used laughter to cope, connect, and heal.
Robin Williams, one of the greatest comedians of all time, once said, “Comedy is acting out optimism.” His ability to make people laugh brought joy to millions, even as he battled his own challenges.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, laughter became a coping mechanism for many. Remember the viral videos of Italian neighbours singing and laughing from their balconies? It was a reminder that even in isolation, humour can unite us.
Closer to home, think about the last time you brightened someone’s day with a joke or a funny story. Laughter is a universal language, and it’s one of the simplest ways to spread joy.
How to Laugh More Every Day
If you’re wondering how to inject more laughter into your life, here are some practical tips:
1. Surround Yourself With Humour
Follow funny social media accounts, watch comedies, or read a hilarious book. Shows like The Office or Brooklyn Nine-Nine are guaranteed to bring out a chuckle or five.
2. Spend Time With Funny People
Laughter is contagious. Spend time with friends or family members who make you laugh, and let their humour rub off on you.
3. Don’t Take Yourself Too Seriously
Learn to laugh at yourself. Spilled coffee on your shirt before a meeting? Turn it into a funny story rather than a mini crisis.
4. Try Laughter Yoga
Yes, it’s a thing! Laughter yoga combines deep breathing with intentional laughter, and it’s been shown to boost mood and reduce stress.
5. Relive Happy Memories
Look at old photos, watch home videos, or talk about funny moments from the past. Nostalgia and laughter make a powerful duo.
A Special Invitation: Join the WIDD Annual Meeting
While we won’t be promising stand-up comedy or laughter yoga, the WIDD Annual Meeting is all about connecting, inspiring, and learning from one another.
This event is a unique opportunity to meet brilliant women from diverse industries, share ideas, and explore strategies for resilience, leadership, and growth. Whether you’re looking to network professionally or simply be inspired, this is the event for you.
👉 Click here to register for the WIDD Network Annual Meeting 👈
Let’s build a future where joy, connection, and collaboration take centre stage.
Laugh Loudly, Live Fully
Laughter is more than a reaction it’s a choice. A choice to find joy in the little things, to connect with others, and to take life a little less seriously.
So, let’s make a commitment to laugh more every day. Whether it’s swapping jokes with a friend, watching your favourite sitcom, or just embracing the absurdity of life, find your moments of joy.
Because when you laugh, the world feels a little lighter, your heart feels a little fuller, and you remind yourself that happiness is always within reach.
Let’s laugh more, live better, and savour every moment.