Laughter as Therapy

By Sheryl | September 8, 2014 |

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I’ve been a little sad over the weekend.

The grief process has a normalcy of sad times which do not have to have a reason. In addition to that, it saddened me to hear of Joan Rivers’ death. I loved Joan. In all of her inappropriateness and harsh statements, I was guaranteed to laugh at some point. 
Her daughter stated she knew her mother would want us to return to laughing soon. Laughter is important and as the statement says above, I believe that laughter is truly one of the best forms of therapy that one can have. 
I love to laugh. There is nothing better than laughing to the point that your stomach hurts or seeing the humor in an event that lightens the mood. Laughter has pulled me through some of the darkest moments of my life and been the center of the happiest moments of my life. 
I’ve been fortunate enough to be someone who has laughed most of my life. One of the greatest compliments I have been given is that I have a great laugh. It’s been helpful to hear this over the years because at times I have been around individuals who were not totally comfortable laughing. When someone who loves to laugh is surrounded by those who hold it in, it can be uncomfortable and you find yourself holding it in. Over the years I have begun to not let it bother me and laugh anyway. 
As a counselor, it may surprise you that there is  often a lot of laughter in many of my sessions. I encourage my clients to laugh; to find the humor in the situation, in the individuals they are with and at life in general. 
Laughing is as healing as tears. 
Laughter is truly beneficial. 
Laughter is good for your health. 
Laughter is beneficial. 
 
When laughter is shared, it binds people together and increases happiness and intimacy. Laughter also triggers healthy physical changes in the body. Humor and laughter strengthen your immune system, boost your energy, diminish pain, and protect you from the damaging effects of stress. Laughter is being used in cancer treatment centers around the country as well as some treatments for depression.
  • Laughter can decrease distressing emotions.  It’s not possible to feel anxious, angry or sad when you’re laughing. One of the funniest moments during my Mom’s treatment was when she awoke from a surgery and when asked if she was hungry stated, “I want steak.” The funny part was she stated it in the same tone and voice that Homer Simpson stated in an episode James and I had just watched. We both laughed.
  • Laughter helps you relax and recharge. Taking time to laugh can reduce stress and increase energy. You are often able to accomplish more and stay more focused. Watch a funny YouTube video or share a joke with a coworker or friend. 
  • Humor shifts perspective.  There are times in life when things simply get too serious. Humor allows you to see situations in a more realistic light. A different perspective allows you psychological distance and can help you not feel overwhelmed. When I worked as a Hospice employee, I always warned my new students that they would be hearing laughter from the employees and this was a way of coping with the daily stress of the job. 
Do you have enough laughter in your life? Do you know what makes you laugh? 
 
This week I challenge you to try to laugh at least once per day. Find humor in a situation. Laugh at yourself for doing something silly. Watch a favorite comedy sitcom or movie. See if you feel different after you allow yourself to laugh. 
 
I leave you with one of my favorite Joan Rivers’ quotes. 
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Posted in inspiration, life, thoughts

7 Comments

  1. Caroline on September 8, 2014 at 2:20 pm

    This is so good! We all need laughter – it sure does help us through the hard times!!



  2. Beth Mayberry on September 8, 2014 at 3:42 pm

    Laughter is so important!



  3. Sherri Davidson on September 9, 2014 at 6:02 pm

    Laughter is amazing. From someone that has gone to 10 funerals in the past 11 months I get how healing joy can be.



  4. Rachel on September 10, 2014 at 1:17 am

    I absolutely agree with the idea that laughter can be healing and very important for health. I’m thankful its’ always been a big part of my life!



    • Sheryl at How to Make a Life on September 11, 2014 at 2:52 pm

      Thank You Rebecca!! We are thankful that the pain is gone today and we are hoping to be home soon so that he can rest in his own bed. Prayers so appreciated. XOXO



  5. Chantel Klassen on September 11, 2014 at 5:48 pm

    Oh, I totally agree. Laughter is amazing!