Q: As my wife and I get older we joke about having “senior moments” when we can’t remember where we put something or the name of a friend at church. Then more recently I had a medical procedure that required me to be homebound for several weeks, and I started to really get down in the dumps. My wife started playing old episodes of “I Love Lucy” and it really helped me get through the day. Is it true that a good laugh can really help to heal?
A: There is actually quite a bit of research surrounding the use of humor as a coping mechanism as people navigate the many challenges life can bring. Often as people age, they face change and loss that feels beyond their control and it can cause that “down in the dumps” feeling you talked about. The truth is we are all aging from birth and as we face the ups and downs of life, a good laugh can be the best medicine.
Humor is all around us, but at times we may not see it. Seeking out ways to laugh can be very beneficial, even when we have to create those opportunities. The old sitcoms are a great go-to resource, so your wife was spot on in her strategy to help you through a tough situation. Just think of all the classic comedies and sitcoms that are now readily available through cable, satellite and the Internet. YouTube is also great for looking up old comedy skits, like Carole Burnett and Tim Conway.
Humor and subsequent laughter have many therapeutic effects on the body. Most of us don’t take humor seriously enough. There are few activities that are as mentally demanding and intellectually stimulating as laughter. It can help you develop perspective in a situation and break up a tense moment. Having a good sense of humor can keep you mentally fit while adding fun and enjoyment to your life.
We know that laughter relaxes the whole body; a good hardy laugh will relieve physical tension and stress. Laughter triggers the release of endorphins to promote an overall sense of well-being. It often releases pent up feelings of anger and frustration. An optimistic outlook can significantly improve the way you approach life. There are physical benefits too. Research has shown that laughter can help protect the heart by improving the function of blood vessels and blood flow. It boosts the immune system by decreasing stress hormones and increasing immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies. Some people report reduced pain and lower blood pressure, so maybe a laugh a day can help keep the doctor away.
There can also be social benefits. Laughter is contagious! It tends to draw others to us and strengthens relationships. It can help defuse conflict and promote positive bonding and connections. People have a tendency to feel less lonely and more united when they can share a laugh with someone else. It can be family, friends, social groups or support groups. People need people and sharing a laugh is a great bond.
So yes, a good laugh really can help us heal in many ways. Seek out ways to add laughter to your life. Laugh at yourself. Share embarrassing moments. Look for the humor in situations rather than bemoaning them. Surround yourself with funny quotes, pictures, people and television shows to help keep things in perspective. Deal with your stress, as stress is a major impediment to humor and laughter. Finally, pay attention to children and emulate them; they are experts on playing and laughing and can often brighten even the lousiest day!
“You don’t stop laughing because you’re old. You grow old because you stop laughing.”
“Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.”
– Mark Twain
Anti-Aging Response to Daily Laughter
It reduces stress
It helps us sleep better
It uses a lot of muscles
It improves lung capacity and blood oxygen levels
It boosts our energy level
It is a natural and free anti-aging tool
It is contagious – it will extend to the people around you
Check List for Lightening Up
Is it really worth getting upset over?
Is it worth upsetting others?
Is it that important?
Is it that bad?
Is the situation irreparable?
Is it really your problem?