PERSONAL NOTE
Well, last month I celebrated another trip around the sun. I want to thank everyone for the calls, cards, texts, and emails; you filled my heart with love. I have truly amazing people in my life.
In March, the topic that we explored was quieting the noise and losing the distractions. This month I wanted to bring in the lighter side of life and focus on laughter, one of my favorite things on the planet. I love to laugh and help others laugh as well, so this topic is definitely in my wheelhouse.
ARTICLE
Laughter: The Free Medicine, You Forgot You Had
When life gets serious, stressful, or downright overwhelming, one of the best tools we have to cope might seem a little unexpected: laughter.
Laughter isn’t just about having fun—it’s a deeply healing and scientifically supported way to release tension and reconnect to joy. In the face of pressure or burnout, even a few moments of genuine laughter can shift our mood, open our perspective, and relax our bodies. It gives us a reset, right when we need it most.
The Science Behind the Giggles
Research has shown that laughter can reduce the level of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, while boosting feel-good neurotransmitters such as endorphins and dopamine. It increases oxygen intake, stimulates your heart and lungs, and improves circulation, creating a soothing, full-body effect similar to exercise or meditation.
A study published in The American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine noted that laughter therapy can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels, improve mood, and even enhance immune function. Other research from the Mayo Clinic and Stanford University highlights laughter's ability to reduce pain perception and increase resilience, especially in high-stress environments.
In short? Laughter literally changes your physiology—and helps your brain and body bounce back more quickly from stress.
6 Simple Ways to Invite More Laughter into Your Life
Here are six low-effort, high-impact ways to sprinkle more laughter into your days (and benefit your well-being while you're at it):
- Watch or listen to something funny—on purpose. Set aside time to watch your favorite sitcom, comedy special, or a silly animal video. Laughter is often just a click away—and it’s okay to seek it out intentionally.
- Surround yourself with lighthearted people. We tend to mirror the moods of those around us. Spend time with friends or colleagues who bring out your playful side and help you take things a little less seriously.
- Learn to laugh at yourself (gently). Life is full of imperfect moments. Being able to chuckle at your own missteps can build emotional resilience and ease the pressure of trying to be perfect.
- Try a laughter yoga or laughter meditation class. These practices blend deep breathing with voluntary laughter, which often turns into real laughter—and produces the same health benefits. Many classes are available online for free!
- Create a “laugh bank.” Bookmark or save things that make you laugh—videos, memes, cartoons, or quotes. On tough days, revisit your collection for a guaranteed mood lift.
- Keep a ‘funny moments’ journal. Write down the amusing or unexpected moments that happen during your week. Reviewing them later helps you see life through a lighter lens—and find joy in the ordinary.
Why Laughter Really Matters
In high-stress environments—whether you’re working in escrow, raising a family, running a business, or just navigating life, it’s easy to forget that joy is a form of strength. Laughter reconnects us to the present moment. It softens us, grounds us, and reminds us that we’re human.
It may not solve every problem, but it helps us handle them with a lighter heart and a clearer mind.
So, the next time you're feeling stretched thin or close to burnout, take a breath... and find something that makes you laugh. Your mind, body, and nervous system will thank you for it.
If this doesn't make you laugh, call me because YOU are Too Stressed--Make Sure Your Sound Is On
LET ME KNOW WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH
Hit reply to let me know.
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Stay safe, healthy, and happy!
Coach Jan
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