I love laughing. There is nothing like a full belly laugh to release stress from every cell in my body. Nothing works faster than laughter to bring your mind and body back into balance. Humor lightens your burdens, inspires hope, connects you to others, and keeps you grounded, focused, and alert. I tend to laugh more during stressful times, make more jokes, and roll with the punches – I take things less seriously. Some people might view me as insensitive but it really helps me get through those difficult moments so I am able to help and focus on others.

Recently, I was reminded of this habit. I am blessed with parents in their 80s who live in their own home, but unfortunately over 1300 miles away from me. It takes at least 6 hours to fly there, if I am lucky. So, when they need me, it’s quite the trek. They do have some assistance; my Dad has a home health aide that comes in to help out as needed, thank goodness. At the beginning of the month, my Mom fell down and broke her hip. Although, she is in the hospital getting good care and there is someone to assist my Dad while she is in the hospital, going through rehab, they needed me. Of course, I flew down to Florida to help my parents through this challenging time.

After I settled in, I realized I was smiling and laughing more. Unconsciously, I was just trying to make the whole situation a bit more bearable, it’s how I’m wired, and, I am so grateful for it

• Laughter relaxes the whole body. A good, hearty laugh relieves physical tension and stress, leaving your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes after.
• Laughter boosts the immune system while decreasing stress hormones, increasing immune cells, and infection-fighting antibodies, thus improving your resistance to disease.
• Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain.
• Laughter protects the heart by improving the function of blood vessels and increasing blood flow, which can protect you against a heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.

Life can be stressful but there is always something to laugh about. Try it, your body and mind with thank you.

Have a laugh on me!