I can’t remember where or when, but I read an article a friend was writing, in which he mentioned the importance of having a “laugh partner”. The idea may make you smile, but it’s an excellent one!

When I train laughter yoga facilitators, I always invite them to identify the people in their lives who help them to laugh.

Why?

For the simple reason that they help us stay healthy!

The social element of our lives has taken a beating since the start of the pandemic. We haven’t seen each other for months! And for the vast majority, the isolation has been more than a blow to morale.

No matter whether we’re going through a stormy, stressful time or not, the people around us who make us laugh are “essential services”! Guardian angels. Lifelines.

Take a look around you. I’m sure if you think about it, you’ll find one or more people who make you laugh when you meet or talk to them.

That’s who you need to surround yourself with. To create a positive network that keeps you in shape!

Back in 2003, when I was training to become a laughter yoga facilitator, when I was asked to “Write down three things that make you laugh”, I wrote the name of a friend in my notebook. This friend always has the gift of making me laugh (at all sorts of trivial things!!). I realized that we didn’t talk very often, but whenever we did, I always laughed myself to tears! So I resolved to multiply the opportunities to talk to him and meet him. Precisely because we’re both always laughing. I feel like I’ve recharged my battery of good humor. Even though we often make fun of each other, we always laugh heartily and leave with a lighter heart.

Finding a laughter partner can have many benefits for your physical and emotional well-being.

1. Stress reduction: Laughter is a natural way to reduce stress and anxiety. When you laugh, your body releases endorphins, which are hormones that give you a feeling of well-being and relaxation.
2. Improved mental health: Laughter can also improve your mental health by reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. It can help you feel happier and more optimistic.
3. Strengthening social relationships: Laughing with others can strengthen social bonds and help you feel more connected to others. It can also improve your self-confidence and your ability to communicate with others.
4. Improved physical health: Laughter can benefit your physical health by boosting the immune system, improving circulation and reducing pain.
5. Reduced isolation: Finding a laughter partner can help you break out of isolation and engage more with the world around you. This can be particularly beneficial if you’re experiencing stress or loneliness.

In short, finding a laughter partner can have many benefits for your overall well-being. So don’t hesitate to laugh often and seek out people with whom you can share this positive experience.

Do you?

I encourage you to find one (or more!) laughing partners!

It could even be one of your grandchildren, if you have any! It’s great to show our offspring that we’re capable of being playful and laughing out loud! It’s an important lesson to teach them how to laugh for the rest of their lives.

Really, put it on your to-do list! And cherish your laughter partners.

Well, I just called mine and left him a voicemail that’s sure to make him smile! Want to know what I said? “Your text says you’ll call me back. Is that true? At what time? On what day? Are you going to call me to confirm when? In the meantime, I was calling to say hello… (pause) Hello! Ok Bye!”

Laughter, joy and health

Linda

P.S. Oh, and if you want me to be your laughing partner for a few days, sign up for the MORAL BOOST capsules!