Do you wish you knew the secret of true happiness? Laughter therapy can do wonders to elevate your mood. Although the idea of laughter therapy may seem like a joke, laughing has shown to bring tangible and noteworthy health benefits.
Laughing decreases depression and anxiety, numbs pain, lowers blood pressure, boosts your mood, encourages creativity, and even burns calories. Research has shown that your body cannot tell the difference between spontaneous laughter and forced laughter—it still releases the same “feel good” chemicals, such as dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins.
Most adults do not laugh enough in their lives. While children laugh an average of 150 times a day, the typical adult laughs only 12 times per day.
Tips for a happier life
Do you want to bring more laughter and happiness into your life? Here are a few tips to be truly happy.
- Begin your day with a gratitude journal. After you wake up, before you do anything else, write down at least three things you are grateful for. This will help set the tone for your day focusing on the positives, instead of dwelling on what you are lacking.
- Smile. Even if it feels forced, smiling generates endorphins and positive emotions.
- Volunteer. Take the focus away from yourself and your own problems, and focus on helping someone else. Giving back to others can help create a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
- Wear bright colors. Surrounding yourself with bright colors can help brighten your mood.
- Spend time in nature. Getting some sun and fresh air can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Take a deep breath. Focusing on your breathing and mindfulness meditation can create a sense of serenity and peace.
- Sing in the shower. Music and dance can actually make you happier. The next time you’re feeling down, try putting in the headphones and busting some moves.
- Watch a comedy. Let your laughter loose.
Increase your happiness. Get help today.
Jennifer can help you feel happier and more fulfilled. If you’re struggling with depression, stress, or anxiety, or simply want to bring more happiness into your life, reach out to Jennifer today. Call or just fill out the contact form and click Send.
Adapted from the article “How to Wake Up Happy Every Day, According to a Laughter Therapist” by Amanda Montell