Laughter may be the Superdrug your body is missing.

It’s easy to talk about laughter but when the stresses of life are bombarding you, sometimes it’s hard to enjoy the lighter moments. But we love laughing when we are kids, so why do things change as we get older? I have some of my fondest memories laughing with friends about what I realize is some of the goofiest stuff I could imagine - but man those are some good times. Here are a few benefits of finding a way to bring some more laughter into your life.

• Stress Reduction: Laughter can significantly reduce stress by lowering levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. A study from Psychoneuroendocrinology found that individuals who laughed more frequently had lower cortisol levels, which can lead to a reduction in stress-related symptoms like tension and anxiety[1].

• Improved Immune Function: Engaging in laughter boosts the immune system. Research published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine demonstrated that laughter increases the production of antibodies and activates protective immune cells, enhancing the body’s ability to fight off illnesses[2].

• Cardiovascular Health: Laughter stimulates circulation and improves vascular function, which can protect against heart disease. A study in Heart showed that laughter causes the endothelium, the inner lining of blood vessels, to expand, thereby improving blood flow and reducing the risk of cardiovascular events[3].

• Pain Relief: The act of laughing triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. A study in the Journal of Neuroscience found that participants who engaged in laughter experienced an increase in pain tolerance due to the release of these feel-good chemicals[4].

• Mental Health and Social Connection: Laughter enhances mood and fosters social bonds. According to research from Psychological Science, shared laughter in social settings can strengthen relationships and provide a buffer against the challenges of life[5].

Laughter is the fountain of youth. But how do you find more of it in your life?

Laughter is my litmus test for friendships.

If we can’t laugh together we probably shouldn't be friends. I have found that my closest friends are those who can give and take jabs. If we take ourselves too seriously, what fun is that?

I know it sounds crazy, but I find that if you and your friends can poke fun at each other and laugh - you’ve got something there. Why? Because to do that and not have your feelings hurt means that you and your friend have done a good job investing in your relationship and making each other feel loved, known, and accepted. So much so that you can take a joke and they can as well.

If we are so fragile that we can’t laugh at and with each other - then we should question the value of that friendship. I’m not suggesting that we should be mean - but that we can make light of even serious situations because we know our friend has our back and we have theirs.

Overcoming Obstacles to Integrating Laughter into Daily Life

Despite the vast array of benefits, incorporating more laughter into life can be challenging. Here are a few common objections and practical solutions:

Objection: “I’m too busy to think about laughter.”

• Solution: Start small. Integrate laughter into everyday activities, such as watching a funny video during a break or listening to a comedy podcast while commuting. Small doses can have significant effects.

Objection: “I don’t find many things funny anymore.”

• Solution: Explore different sources of humor. What made you laugh in the past might differ from what does now. Experiment with new comedians, humorous books, or even light-hearted conversations with friends. I’ve found that my closest friends are ones I can joke with and make light of even serious situations.

Objection: “My life circumstances aren’t conducive to laughter.”

• Solution: While life can present serious challenges, it’s essential to seek moments of joy. Do whatever it takes to find a way to bring some joy and levity into your life.

Objection: “Laughter feels forced when I’m stressed.”

• Solution: Practice makes perfect. Start with a smile, which can naturally lead to laughter. Engage in activities that you genuinely enjoy, as these are more likely to elicit spontaneous laughter.

Life has enough problems of its own - don’t let the sorrows and stresses of life overrun the joyful opportunities that exist all around us.

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I’d love to hear your thoughts. 👋

I’m always looking for feedback. What would you like for me to cover? Is there anything in the newsletter you like or want to see more or less of?

Here are a few topics I think you’ll love:

How to Breathe for Better Health

How Self-Doubt Can Become Your Superpower 

How to Supercharge Your Sleep

The Power of the Sauna

Forgiveness May Be Your Missing Ingredient

-Jared

P.S. - This newsletter does not provide medical advice. The content, such as graphics, images, text, and all other materials, is provided for reference and educational purposes only. The content is not meant to be complete or exhaustive or to be applicable to any specific individual's medical condition.

[1]: Scott, J., & Melhorn, S. (2020). Laughter and Cortisol Levels. Psychoneuroendocrinology.

[2]: Berk, L. S., et al. (2021). The Effects of Laughter on the Immune System. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.

[3]: Miller, M., & Fry, W. (2019). Laughter and Cardiovascular Health. Heart.

[4]: Dunbar, R. I. M., et al. (2020). Laughter and Pain Tolerance. Journal of Neuroscience.

[5]: Provine, R. R., & Fischer, K. R. (2018). Social Laughter and Relationships. Psychological Science.