Having trouble finding reasons to laugh lately? I realize that the Coronavirus is a very serious situation but there have been some pretty funny memes and jokes about quarantines, etc. that have made me giggle (see a couple of examples below).
I personally love to laugh. Watching Jimmy Fallon is one of my favorite things as I think he is hilarious. And for anyone who cares, he is also my celebrity crush. I’m also pretty good at laughing at myself as you can probably tell from my blog posts – and there’s a lot of material.
I have often wondered if God has a sense of humor. I think he does. He created us, so how can we think things are funny unless the whole idea came from Him in the first place? He also created some pretty funny creatures like manatees and warthogs. And let’s face it, our bodily functions are rather humorous. And there are so many funny absurdities in life in general.
So, what does the bible say about laughter?
“He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy.” Job 8:21
“There is a time to weep and a time to laugh, at time to mourn and a time to dance.” Ecclesiastes 3:4
“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Proverbs 17:22
So, the saying, “Laughter is the Best Medicine” goes back to ancient times. And laughter really does have health benefits. It lightens your load mentally and also has a number of physical health benefits. Studies have shown that it boosts the immune system and triggers the release of pleasure-inducing neurochemicals in the brain.
The Bible reminds us that it is good not to take life too seriously. The woman in Proverbs 31 “is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.” (verse 25)
Here are some ways to bring more humor and
laughter into your life:
- Smile
Smiling is the beginning of laughter. So do it more! - Count your blessings
Literally make a list of all of your blessings. The simple act of considering the good things in your life will distance you from negative thoughts which are a barrier to laughter. - Spend time with people who make you laugh
These are people who laugh easily, both at themselves and at life’s absurdities and who can routinely make you laugh. You may have to do some of this virtually right now but that’s okay! - Laugh at yourself
Share your embarrassing and amusing moments. Get over yourself and don’t take yourself so seriously. - Watch movies, TV shows or read things that make you laugh
I mentioned Jimmy Fallon as one of my favs. Movies that make me laugh include, Caddyshack, There’s Something About Mary, Meet the Fockers and Talladega Nights. My favorite funny TV shows include Friends and The Office. - Emulate children
They are the experts on taking life lightly and laughing!!
If you suspect you might be suffering from a lack of cheer, use some of the suggestions above to bring more laughter into your life!
“Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, ‘The Lord has done great things for them’.” Psalm 126:2
REFLECT
How will you use some of this information to get more laughter in your life?
