Laughter is more than just fun; it’s a powerful tool for improving our mood and health
Manchester: Let’s be real, life in the north can sometimes feel a bit dull. The weather, the daily grind, and just the ups and downs can weigh us down. With the recent snow and cold, it’s a reminder that winter isn’t done with us yet.
But here’s the thing: we all have a secret weapon to help us cope—humour. Finding a giggle or a hearty laugh can really lighten the mood, even when things seem tough. And it turns out, laughter is more important than we think.
We all know laughter feels good, but did you know there’s science behind it? When something tickles our funny bone, our brains kick into gear. They release endorphins, those lovely feel-good chemicals that boost our mood and even help with pain. That’s why we often feel on top of the world after a good laugh.
But the perks of laughter go beyond just feeling good for a moment. Regular laughter can really help our mental and physical health. Studies show it can lower stress hormones like cortisol, which are linked to anxiety. Plus, it can give our immune system a boost, which is a nice bonus during cold season. Think of it as a little workout for your insides!
Humour isn’t just about cracking jokes, though. It’s about spotting the funny side in everyday life. It’s that shared look with someone when something unexpected happens on the bus. It’s about not taking ourselves too seriously.
If you’re feeling the winter blues, here are some fun ways to bring more laughter into your life:
Hang out with funny folks: Laughter is contagious! Surround yourself with people who crack you up. Watch a comedy: Sometimes, you just need to kick back and let the pros make you laugh. Read something funny: There’s loads of humour in books and articles.
Share laughs with friends and family: Telling funny stories is a great way to connect. Don’t take yourself too seriously: We all mess up. Learning to laugh at our own blunders can be freeing.
Martin Furber is a therapist. If you need help, reach out at wellbeing@martinfurber.com.
If you’re in a mental health crisis, please contact your GP, go to A&E, call NHS 111 (option 2), reach out to the Samaritans at 116 123, or text SHOUT to 85258.
