07/05/2023
World Laughter Day 2023: How laughter helps our brain reduce stress?
This laughter day we are going to tell you about the several physical and mental health benefits, including reducing stress.
Regardless of the difficulties life may throw at you, laughing them away can be a potent mantra for reducing stress and fostering pleasure. A happier existence and a more upbeat outlook can result from laughing more. Laughter has a psychological impact on the body and can help people recover from grief by making them feel happier and more energised.
Laughing can also improve physical health by easing pain and boosting the immune system. World Laughter Day strives to increase awareness of the value of happiness and the various advantages of laughing. Every year on the first Sunday in May, people all across the world observe World Laughter Day.
This laughter day we are going to tell you about the several physical and mental health benefits, including reducing stress.
Here are some pointers on how laughter can help reduce stress:
1. Laughter releases endorphins, which are natural chemicals that make us feel good and reduce stress.
2. Laughing helps to relax the muscles in the body, which can help to reduce tension and relieve stress.
3. Laughter can improve your mood and help you feel more positive, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
4. Laughing with others can help to build social connections and reduce feelings of loneliness, which can also contribute to stress reduction.
5. Watching or listening to something funny, such as a comedy show or podcast, can help to distract you from stressful thoughts and situations.
6. Making time for laughter and humor in your daily life can help you maintain a positive outlook and better cope with stressors.
7. It's important to note that laughter should not be used as the sole solution to managing chronic or severe stress. In these cases, seeking support from a mental health professional may be necessary.
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.