Why having a good laugh can make us feel better – wellbeing

LET’S be honest, life up north can sometimes be… well, a bit grey.

Whether it’s the weather, the daily grind, or just the general ups and downs of life, we all have moments when things feel a bit heavy. The recent snow and cold spell have been a reminder that we still have a few harsh weeks ahead.

There’s a powerful tool we all possess that can help us cope better – humour. It’s that ability to find a giggle, a chuckle, or even a full-blown belly laugh, even when things aren’t exactly rosy. And it’s more important than you might think.

We all know that laughter feels good, but did you know there’s actual science behind it? Laughter is a complex process that involves multiple parts of the brain. When we hear or see something funny, our brains process the information, and if we find it amusing, a cascade of events occurs. The brain releases endorphins, those feel-good chemicals that act as natural mood boosters and pain relievers. This is why we often feel a sense of euphoria after a good laugh.

The benefits of humour go beyond just a temporary mood lift. Regular doses of laughter can have a significant impact on our overall mental and physical well-being. Studies have shown that laughter can reduce stress hormones like cortisol, which are linked to anxiety and other health problems. It can also boost our immune system by increasing the production of antibodies that fight off infection; which can be a bonus at this time of the year. Think of it as a mini workout for your insides!

Humour isn’t just about telling jokes, though. It’s about finding the funny side of everyday situations. It’s about that shared glance with a stranger when something unexpected happens on the bus. It’s about not taking ourselves too seriously.

So, if you’ve got the winter blues at the moment, here are a few ways to inject a bit more humour into your life:

Spend time with funny people: Laughter is contagious! Surround yourself with people who make you laugh. Watch a comedy show or film: Sometimes, you just need to sit back and let the professionals do the work. Read funny books or articles: There’s a wealth of humour to be found in the written word.

Share funny stories with friends and family: Sharing a laugh is a great way to connect with others.

Don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself: We all make mistakes. Learning to laugh at our own mistakes can be incredibly liberating.

Martin Furber is a therapist. Contact: [email protected]

If you are in a mental health crisis contact your GP, go to A&E, call NHS 111 (option2), the Samaritans on 116 123 or text SHOUT to 85258.