5 reasons why laughter really is the best medicine

5 Reasons Why Laughter Is the Best Medicine

"Joy in one's heart and some laughter on one's lips is a sign that the person down deep has a pretty good grasp of life."- American journalist Hugh Sidey
How many times do you laugh each day? I think we could all use a little more laughter in our lives. Sure, sometimes humor can be distorted. People use it to hurt others and some go dark and perverse with it, but comedy can still be good, clean fun. Sometimes things can get you down. Life is full of stress, grief, and heartache. But oftentimes, it's better to laugh than cry. Laughter really is the best medicine, and here are some reasons why:
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1. God loves it. I believe that God loves to see us laugh. When I was younger, I saw Christian comedian and singer Mark Lowry in concert. I bought one of his books, and in it he talks about God and humor. Something I read has stuck with me to this day. Explaining why he thinks God enjoys seeing us laugh, he said, "What healthy father doesn't love to hear his children laugh?" While there are certainly times to get serious, I believe God enjoys hearing laughter in the middle of fellowship.
2. It keeps us healthy. God made laughing good for us. Research shows that laughter plays an important role in both physical and mental health. According to HelpGuide.org, laughing helps boost immunity, decrease pain, lower stress, relax mood, and ease anxiety.
3. It can help us learn. We all learn and remember more when there is an emotional attachment to a lesson. Think back on your life. The times you recall the quickest are probably times you were laughing or crying. The American Psychological Association also says that laughter can lead to better learning. Although the APA says it's possible to overdo it, your lessons will stick with your kids better if they are having fun.
4. It can bridge gaps. Sometimes the shortest distance between two people is a joke. Members of the Christian Comedy Association know that, and many of their members present faith-based truths in a form that can reach people in a unique, inviting way. They use laughter as a tool, and so can you.
5. It keeps life in perspective. HelpGuide.org also brings up this point. When a problem comes your way, how do you handle it? Don't stress, lighten up! Ask yourself if it is really that bad and worth getting upset over. Breathe, laugh, and look at the problem as an opportunity. A good sense of humor will help you keep going and keep your team from stressing.
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Here are two challenges for you this week. First, help your team grow closer together by doing something to make them laugh. Tell a joke, share a story, play a game, or ask them if something funny has happened recently. Second, when you hear your kids laugh, find out what's so funny. Join them in their laughter and let them put a smile on your face!
The most important thing to do is to smile. Remember where your joy comes from and who is in control. Doing so will help you laugh at anything life throws at you.