Your brain is a delicate organ, and it's rarely "turned off." But the closest you can come to giving your brain a break while you're awake is to give it a full dose of humour. Laughter actually produces the pleasure-inducing hormones cortisol and adrenaline, and also releases endorphins, which your mind uses to ward off negative emotions. These pleasing chemicals revive your brain, stimulating it to better handle new thoughts and ideas.
Processing humour gives you a natural burst of energy, which is great for reviving your mind at any time. Plus, having a good sense of humour connects you with others, especially when you share a deep laugh with a group. So, you can become more connected to your loved ones this Mother's Day simply by laughing with them.
Free Your Emotions Through Humour
Regularly laughing at yourself, at funny situations and at humourous entertainment can change your perspective, making you more laid-back and less overwhelmed from stress. Laughter can act as a form of catharsis, releasing anger, frustration, anxiety and even grief in a safe and cleansing way.
If it's not an appropriate time to burst into laughter, a simple smile can help raise your spirits and remind your overextended, overstressed mind of the positive things in your life.
Turn Your "Ha-ha" Moments Into a Workout
Laughter not only betters your mind and your emotions — it also helps your physical health. Laughing works your diaphragm, lowers your blood pressure, boosts your immune system and might help protect you from heart disease.
If you need some help getting your laughter started, check out laughter yoga, a form of yoga that incorporates chuckles and chortles into a workout. You get the added benefit of processing your laughter with a crowd.
Keep in mind that your body doesn't know the difference between false laughter and the real deal, so, if you have to, start faking it. Either way, laugh a lot this Mother's Day, and you'll be giggling your way to a healthier, less stressful life.
Do you ever want to be a kid again? For adult-play therapy ideas, read this article.
