When we focus on improving our Mental Health, one area that often gets less attention is the influence of laughter in our lives. Preserving mental health is no laughing matter, but the benefits of laughter just might be. Laughter is something we should all hope to catch. The health benefits include it being a natural pain killer by releasing endorphins, boosting the immune system, relaxing the body, and burning calories.
Children love to laugh. I often share about my grandson and the silly things he likes to giggle about, which in turn causes me to laugh. Sometimes the simplest of jokes can also make you laugh, for example: “Doctor: What is the condition of the boy that swallowed the dime? Nurse: There is no change yet.” Remember to find that funny bone and spread some laughter.
Kris Jacobson, LNHA, LALD, MBA
JMHS CEO
