“A day without laughter is a day wasted.” - Charlie Chaplin
Those who know me well know that one of my greatest joys in life is a deep belly laugh.
That feeling of uncontrollable cathartic expression that leaves you feeling light and full simultaneously.
It is often said that “laughter is the best medicine.” While it is not literally a medication, it can elevate your mental, emotional, and even physiological well-being!
Here Are 5 Benefits of Laughter:
Laughter is a Natural Pain Reliever
Laughter has a profound ability to alleviate physical pain in addition to psychological pain. When we laugh, endorphins bind to opioid receptors in our brain, spinal cord, and other parts of our body. This mechanism halts the transmission of pain signals from the brain to the body, naturally and without addictive components.
2. Laughter Enhances Mood
Endorphins not only naturally decrease pain—they also increase our sense of well-being and joy. When most of us think of “endorphins,” we think of “exercise,” but that’s not the only way to stimulate their production. If you’re not feeling up for the gym one day, you can hop on the couch, put on a stand-up comedy special, and feel those natural benefits. When we laugh, our brains also increase the production of dopamine and feelings of pleasure— which can aid in alleviating feelings of sadness or depression—sounds like medicine to me! :)
3. Laughter Creates Connection
Laughter is a gift that keeps on giving in our social relationships. When we bond through humor, oxytocin is released, causing us to feel more connected and less anxious. I’ve deepened my relationships through the ever-growing list of “inside jokes” and recognize how powerful shared humor is in increasing feelings of trust and vulnerability.
4. Laughter Can Boost Self-Esteem
When we laugh, we experience positive emotions, which make it easier to view ourselves and others in a more positive and accepting light. Laughter also allows us to engage in self-expression and play, which contributes to self-acceptance and joy. Additionally, learning to laugh with ourselves and others allows us to take ourselves less seriously and our experiences less personally.
5. Laughter Alleviates Anxiety
Laughter lowers the production of cortisol, known as the “stress hormone,” alleviating sensations of anxiety and tension in the body. With fewer physiological sensations of stress, we can engage with our world and interact more playfully and with more ease.
Laughter is an incredible coping mechanism that can enhance your quality of life. Of course, there is a difference between forcing laughter or using it as a defense mechanism and utilizing it as a tool to improve your well-being. To learn more about the difference, you can get in touch with our Client Care Coordinator at Root to Rise to book an appointment with one of our therapists today!
With gratitude,
Atalie Abramovici
