The sound of laughter is contagious and infectious. It is a natural reflex much like seeing someone yawn and the people around them yawn. Babies laugh, children laugh and old people laugh but often the people in-between forget to laugh.

There is much evidence and research that tells us that laughter is strong medicine for mind and body. Dr. Paul E. McGhee tells us “Your sense of humor is one of the most powerful tools you have to make certain that your daily mood and emotional state support good health”.

Laughter seems to dissolve distressing emotions; helps people relax and recharge; and probably most important humor shifts perspective.

If you find that there doesn’t seem to be enough laughter in your life here are some ways to create opportunities to laugh:

• Watch a funny movie or TV Show.
• Go to a comedy club.
• Read a comic book.
• Seek out funny people.
• Read humor books.
• Host game night with family or friends (not too competitive).
• Play with a pet.
• Go to a “laughter yoga club”.
• Play with children.
• Do something silly.
• Make time for fun activities.

Humor also helps us all be more spontaneous, let go of defensiveness; release inhibitions an express true feelings. Laughter is our true birthright. Make laughter as important as “working out”, set aside time to laugh. Some ways to start are: Smile, Count your blessings, look for laughter, spend time with fun, playful people. Find humor in everyday situations.

I love watching small children, puppies, kittens and babies of all species. There are ways to help yourself see the lighter side of life. Some of these are laugh at yourself, try to laugh at situations rather than whine or complain about them, surround yourself with reminders to lighten up!

We all know that life brings challenges. There are always choices on what to do when that happens. Most importantly don’t become the problem by taking yourself or circumstances too seriously. Humor and laughter helps us all relax, think outside the box and find new solutions.

As laughter, humor and play become an integrated part of your life your creativity springs to the surface and you are able to be more balanced and joyful.