In the world of 2023, there is little doubt that many people are feeling overwhelmed with stress and worry. With all the changes and uncertainty surrounding us, it’s no wonder that our mental health is taking a hit. Yet, amid all of this, there is something that has the potential to preserve our mental wellbeing and help us to cope with the pressure – humour! Finding ways to bring humour into everyday life can provide a powerful antidote to the stress and anxiety we are all feeling.
Humour has a host of physical and psychological benefits, such as reducing cortisol (the stress hormone) and promoting the production of beta-endorphins (the “feel-good hormones”). It can also help to lighten the mood and give us that essential sense of perspective that helps us to tackle stressful situations. In fact, humour can act as a powerful preventative tool when used regularly, as it can help to protect us from the physical and emotional consequences of too much stress. Looking for the funny side of life can help us to relax and regain our sense of control.
Finding Your Own Sense of Humour
It is often said that laughter is contagious, so inculcating humour into our lives allows us to spread its benefits to others. However, it’s important to find your own sense of humour, because what one person finds funny might not necessarily tickle everyone’s funny bone. Just as we may have different tastes in music, movies, and books, so we all have different senses of humour. This is why we may be able to connect so quickly with certain people; because we share a similar sense of humour and it allows us to bond.
So, how can you find your own sense of humour and start to reap the full benefits of its power? One way is to try and be open to new experiences, new ideas, and new people – because by doing so, you may find humour in new places. It can also help to read, watch, or listen to something funny each day, as this can help to sharpen your sense of humour. Even if you don’t normally find something funny, you will discover over time which topics you find amusing. And, of course, it helps to be around people who share the same kind of humour as you. Think of your closest friends – are they people who make you laugh and help you to view the world in a humourous way?
Using Humour as a Coping Mechanism
Humour can also be used as a coping mechanism in difficult times. When facing a stressful situation or a challenging period of our lives, laughter can help to provide a sense of relief. This is because it can help to break up the monotony of a particular situation or give us an easier way to process our feelings. By acknowledging our emotions with humour, we can open up a space for 'good’ feelings, and this can help to make us feel more resilient.
Humour can also be used in a more creative sense by creating jokes, stories, or art. Expressing our feelings through humour can help to give us a way to explore our emotions in a healthier and more productive way. It can also help us to ‘normalize’ our experiences in a world that is increasingly filled with stress and uncertainty. Plus, creating humourous art can help us to connect with others, through sharing our positive experiences.
Conclusion
Humour has the power to reduce stress and improve mental wellbeing, and it is important for everyone to find their own way of bringing more humour into their lives. Whether it is through light-hearted conversations with friends, enjoying a funny movie, or creating your own jokes and stories, tapping into the power of humour can help us to stay mentally healthy in a world filled with stress. And, what’s more, it also has the potential to be contagious, so it can be a great way to connect with others and make the world a brighter place!
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