Laughter is inner jogging.
- Norman Cousins
 

There is the connection to laughter and our true nature. Why is it that infants begin smiling during the first weeks of life and laugh out loud within months of being born? 

Regardless of background, language, upbringing and different personalities, we all came into this world wanting to be playful and happy.  Even if you did not grow up in a household where laughter was a common sound, you can learn to laugh at any age. Laughter connects us to our true nature and authentic selves

“Celebrate your success and find humor in your failures.
Don’t take yourself so seriously.
Loosen up and everyone around you will loosen up.
Have fun and always show enthusiasm.
When all else fails, put on a costume and sing a silly song.”
- Sam Walton

Have you been in the presence of someone who has a contagious smile, essence or laugh and you automatically want to laugh and smile with them? Laughter creates a bond between people and draws you together. In a world full of pain, loss, confusion and uncertainty laughter can bring us into present time and help us take hardships in stride. A sense of humor is the key to resilience and helps us bounce back from adversity and loss.

Your body cannot heal without play.
Your mind cannot heal without laughter.
Your soul cannot heal without joy.
- Catherine Fenwick

Laughter in Relationships

Laughing and playing together are essential components of strong, healthy relationships. By making a conscious effort to incorporate more humor and play into your daily interactions, you can improve the quality of your love relationships— as well as your connections with co-workers, family members, and friends.

When conflict and disagreement throw a wrench in your relationships, humor and playfulness can help lighten things up and restore a sense of connection. Laughter is strong medicine for both the body and the mind. It helps you stay balanced, energetic, joyful, and healthy.

When was the last time you laughed out loud or laughed until you cried? Here are a few ideas on how you can help others create laughter or humor in their lives:

I believe we were meant to be happy, joyful and full of life. Give yourself permission to smile, laugh and have fun!  I invite you to join me in making this a month of laughter!