You’ve likely heard the phrase “laughter is the best medicine.” And while it may feel hard to laugh in times of uncertainty, finding silver linings (and a few things to laugh at) can actually help us ease stress and anxiety.
Giggling at a family member’s witty remark — or even your own joke — seems like a simple, human reaction to something that sparks joy, but there’s actually a boatload of science behind why laughter makes us feel so good.
The Mayo Clinic reports that engaging with our sense of humor can go a long way in relieving stress by causing several physical changes in the body. A bout of laughter often leads to an uptick in endorphins, which is then followed by a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure, resulting in a relaxed feeling and improved circulation, which can ease muscle tension.
In the long term, the Mayo Clinic suggests that laughter can actually improve our overall health by boosting the immune system. The positive thoughts that stem from laughing release neuropeptides in the body that fight stress, which can depress the immune system. Laughing together can also help us keep our social ties strong even when we’re not seeing each other as much in person (or at all). A 2017 study published in the Journal of Nonverbal Behavior found that shared laughter can increase relationship well-being.
Though it might be hard to do in the midst of a challenging moment, sharing a comical moment with a loved one might be just what you need to shift your mindset. You can watch a favorite comedy movie, text a family member about a funny memory, or even play a lighthearted game to get your friends involved and laughing. A little humor will go a long way in spreading positivity, even when you’re feeling stuck.
Here are a few Microsteps to help you make time for laughter:
Pick a go-to laughter buddy for funny moments.
Laughing with a friend or coworker triggers the release of oxytocin in the brain. Not only is it fun to laugh, but a funny interaction can increase our levels of trust and sense of support.
Watch a funny show or listen to your favorite comedy routine while you move or walk.
This can prompt laughter and smiling as you move, which release hormones that increase feelings of happiness and lower stress.
Share a funny meme or video with a co-worker.
It’s an easy way to spread joy during a busy day, and laughing with a teammate can be a powerful way to connect.
When things don’t go as planned, laugh it off.
Frustration can push us to shut down and withdraw. But genuine laughter can improve key areas of our cognitive functioning like problem-solving, concentration, memory, and creativity, which are more useful in challenging moments.
In moments of stress, think about the last time you laughed out loud.
When we laugh and enjoy moments of humor during the day, our stress response calms down, leaving us feeling relaxed, and our brains release endorphins, which can improve our mood.