8 More Benefits of Laughter

Do you have enough laughter in your life? Most of us could benefit from a lot more!

Last week I shared that I recently attended training to become a laughter yoga leader.

I came out of the training determined to incorporate more laughter into my life. For me, I think laughter is even more beneficial than meditation.

In January I’ll be starting a daily laughter practice. I know that the best way to develop a new habit is to start small, so my initial goal will be laughing for at least one minute every day, and then build up from there.

I’ll let you know how it goes!

Last week I shared some of the health benefits from laughter. This week I’m sharing some of the psychological benefits of laughter as summarized in the Alternative Therapies Journal (Vol 16, No. 6).

Research shows that laughter:

1. reduces stress, anxiety, and tension and counteracts symptoms of depression

2. elevates mood, self-esteem, hope, and energy

3. enhances memory, creative thinking, and problem solving

4. improves interpersonal interaction, relationship, attraction, and closeness

5. increases friendliness and helpfulness and builds group identity, solidarity, and cohesiveness

6. promotes well-being

7. improves quality of life

8. is contagious

Eight great reasons to incorporate more laughter into our lives!

If you’re interested in learning more about laughter yoga, you can find lots of information online, including demonstrations on YouTube.

Take good care of your precious heart centered self. Our world needs you!