by Tracy Walter
We have all heard the phrase “laughter is the best medicine.” There is a reason for this phrase. Studies show that laughing can have short- and long-term benefits. Laughter can stimulate organs, activate and relieve your stress response, and soothe tension as short-term benefits. Laughter can also have long-term benefits such as improving your immune system, relieving pain, increasing personal satisfaction, and improving your mood (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2019). Other studies have proven laughter to reduce blood pressure, anxiety, and depression in people as well (Rosenfeld, 2019).
With busy lives and increased stress in everyday life, take a few minutes and share some good jokes with a friend or family member. When visiting, talking to, or writing to people in nursing homes, hospitals, and even between families, why not take this opportunity to help boost the mood of someone with a joke? Below are some great websites for a joke of the day along with some fun books for kids:
https://www.readbrightly.com/joke-books-for-kids/
https://www.rd.com/jokes/daily-life/
http://www.laughfactory.com/jokes/clean-jokes
https://redtri.com/best-jokes-for-kids/slide/1
Another great place to find jokes is on Pinterest. If you are planning a party this year, try incorporating a theme using food and jokes related to the theme. Jokes would be a great ice breaker for groups at a party or gathering as well.
There are so many ways to include jokes into your life to help you or someone around you laugh. During the school year, parents or teachers could make the day a little more enjoyable for their children if they put a joke in their child’s lunch or if a joke was told in the classroom before going to lunch. Using social media is another great way to share a joke with friends and family. Memes are a popular method of a joke and a great way to make someone laugh. It just may make someone’s day! In the workplace via email or at the beginning of meetings, sharing a joke or a meme is a great way to reduce work stress.
Challenge yourself to tell a joke a month to someone and see the difference you could make in the lives of others around you.
One of my favorite jokes lately was a joke told to me by my 8-year old niece, Lucy: Where is a rabbit’s favorite place to eat? IHOP
“You don’t stop laughing because you grow older. You grow older because you stop laughing.” ~Maurice Chevalier
References:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-relief/art-20044456
https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/539632/scientific-benefits-having-laugh
https://theheartfoundation.org/2019/06/24/5-reasons-you-should-laugh-everyday/
