Mental Health and Laughter

“Laughter has been shown to have a number of positive effects on mental health. Dr. Samual Gladding, a past professor of counseling at Wake Forest University in North Carolina, used humor to connect with his clients, reduce tension and stress, and help them see different perspectives in their stories.

According to the Mayo Clinic, Laughter has many physical benefits:

• Laughing releases endorphins, chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and create a general sense of well-being.

• Laughing fires up and then cools down your stress response, and it can increase and then decrease your heart rate and blood pressure, reducing your physical tension, improving your mood, and boosting your immunity.

• Laughter can improve your mood by stimulating circulation and aiding muscle relaxation, which can help reduce some physical symptoms of stress.

• Laughter can also help reduce cortisol, a hormone associated with stress.

• Laughter can help foster stronger relationships, create a sense of connection, and increase our overall well-being.

Overall, incorporating more laughter and joy into your life can be a positive way to promote good mental health.

Holiday Jokes

Here are some silly — roll your eyes — jokes to get into the holiday spirit! Share them with your family at your next gathering, or text a friend.

Joke 1

Why do Dasher and Dancer love coffee?

Answer: Because they’re Santa’s star bucks!

Joke 2

Which of Santa’s reindeer has the worst manners?

Answer: RUDE-olph, of course!

Joke 3

How is the alphabet different on Christmas from every other day?

Answer: There’s Noel! (Get it…No L)”

Read the full article on Medium

✨Takeaway: Laughter has been found to benefit mental health in a variety of ways. It is a good method of reducing stress!

✨Reflection: What’s your favorite holiday joke?

#Holiday #Laughter #MentalHealth #Positive #Wellness #Wellbeing #Christmas