Laughing is like a mini-vacation, allowing you to escape the stress of life and refuel your energy. It lightens your mood and makes life more enjoyable. There are a ton of laughing tools out there to boost your mood and outlook on life.
Most of us are unaware of the numerous advantages that come with laughter. Laughter can boost your immune system, ease stress and tension, reduce pain, and help you relax. So, let out more belly laughs, chuckles, snorts (talking to Tom’s mom and fellow snorters) and giggles - your body and mind will thank you!
Above a portrait Tom took earlier in his career of a very happy artist.
Laughter is great for your physical health
According to HelpGuide.org, the positive effects of laughter on your physical health boosts your immune system, lowers stress hormones, decreases pain, relaxes your muscles, and prevents heart disease.
Laughter increases lifespans, especially for women
Scientific American published an article this week on a large study which found that women with a strong sense of humor had longer lifespans, even in the face of illnesses such as cardiovascular disease and infection. For joyful men the research showed that they seemed to be shielded against infection.
Shared laughter strengthens relationships
According to UNC psychologist Sara Algoe, it is the shared laughter that is significant, as it shows that two people view the world from the same perspective. After researching, Algoe found that those who shared laughter felt more connected than those who did not, which she refers to as the "mind meld".
So, how do you bring more laughter into your life?
The first step is to reframe your mind to life events. Marcus Aurelius stated “The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.” Reframing our minds to interpret life events differently is a common theme amongst wise people from history. Taking a more lighthearted and playful approach to life is the first step to achieving this. Watch this documentary on the taboos of comedy, The Last Laugh, and discover how humor can be found in almost any situation.
Feel down? Laughing Yoga will boost your mood! An amazing place to start is this incredibly popular Ted Talk on Laughing Yoga, which has garnered an astounding 39 million views!
Above, another photo from earlier in Tom’s career, and yes, that is a dog wearing a wig and this lady made wigs for dogs not because they were balding but, well, we don’t know why she made wigs for dogs. Are you laughing yet?
Revisit your childhood and unleash your inner child! Tap into your creativity and let your imagination run wild - from throwing biodegradable water balloons to visiting museums or the county fair. Research from the Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor stated that adults only laugh an average of 17 times per day, compared to kindergartners who laugh over 300 times per day!
