Laughter helps us stay healthier

There have been many studies on laughter and it can help individuals recover from tragedies and illnesses.

But did you know that the person who smiles a lot, laughs a lot and seems optimistic about most of life’s problems is usually a healthier person?

If you would like to cultivate the art of laughter and optimism, but don’t know how to change your pattern of behavior, here are some thought provoking questions to put you on the right track.

• Do you ever laugh out loud? With a hearty, shaking laugh? You can feel the muscles responding. It is good exercise, relieves tension and is good for you.

• Do you ever laugh so much you have to stop yourself from laughing? Don’t, unless your laughter occurs in a place where it might be totally unsuitable and offend others. Laugh as long as you can. The benefits of a long laugh are obviously better for you than a short laugh.

• Do you read humorous books? Do you keep a book nearby that has always made you laugh? Whatever your brand of humor, keep it within reach. And when you need a good laugh, pick it up and read a while.

• Do you spend time with people who like to laugh? If there is a jokester around, do you gravitate toward him or pull away? Laughter is contagious and associating with others who laugh will tickle your fancy, also.

• Do you watch comedy on TV or in movies? A good two-hour laugh-in might be the answer to turn the tide on a mild state of depression.

• Do you laugh at your own mistakes? Can you see the humor when you goof up? Whether it is on the golf course or in the office, admit that you are not super human. And then laugh at your own mistakes.

• If someone played a practical joke on you, would you respond with a good laugh or would you think it was a childish senseless act? Join in the fun, laughter can make new friends for you.

• At a party would you join in a group acting silly? Or are you so reserved that you would avoid that group and move on to more reserved companions? Lighten up. Sometimes the foolish relax and enjoy harmless games and fun a lot more then the other guests.

• If someone offered you any game you wanted, would you choose one that was fun and entertaining or informative and intellectually challenging?

• Have you ever promised yourself that you were going to find something to laugh about each and every day? On certain days, you may have to search for a laughable matter, but it will be worth it.

If you have a healthy attitude about life, perhaps you answered one or more of these questions with a yes. Still, you know you tend to hold back at times for fear of looking ridiculous. You may have to quit restraining yourself and enjoy yourself more. Remember, with more time for laughter, there will be less time for stress and worry.

Laugh a little or laugh a lot. Laughter is a natural and free phenomenon that will help you stay healthier.

Copyright c 1990 Harold H. LeCrone, Jr., Ph.D.