Unravelling laughter: its relationship with wellbeing and complete happiness

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Sometimes just two minutes of laughing out loud is enough to change our whole day, isn’t it?

And it may even seem like a coincidence, but it definitely is not. Laughing is, in fact, one of the most genuine ways of expressing joy and, not by chance, also one of the factors that brings us closest to living a complete and fulfilling life.

That is why, in this post, we are going to unravel laughter. Yes, you read that correctly: we will explain the reasons why it is a powerful ally of wellbeing and complete happiness, as well as (believe it or not!) a safeguard against emotional, psychological and even physical illness.

Shall we begin?

1. Laughter stimulates brain activity

When we laugh genuinely, the effects on our body and mind are almost instantaneous. First, the body relaxes and, if we are overwhelmed by sad or distressing feelings, their intensity drops. Then the muscles relax, and the stress, anxiety and tension of the day are reduced.

Part of this process happens because laughing releases hormones responsible for feelings of pleasure and wellbeing, such as endorphins and serotonin. As a result, the risk of psychosomatic conditions, such as anxiety and depression, is also reduced.

2. Laughter gets life moving – and the human body too!

It is not only life that becomes happier when we laugh – the body does too. It is estimated that some 80 muscles are set in motion while we laugh: starting with the brain, heart, feet, legs, throat and, of course, the face itself. It may not seem like it, but the simple habit of laughing freely has positive effects on blood circulation, strengthens the core (the stabilising abdominal region) and the immune system, improves sleep and boosts creativity.

3. Strengthen your heart with a good dose of... laughter

Every time you let out a laugh, alone or in company, your blood flow automatically increases. As a result, the function of your blood vessels is put to the test and improved, which not only helps prevent heart attacks but also various other cardiovascular diseases.

4. Feel less fear

Yes, you read that correctly. Laughing can also reduce cortisol, the hormone responsible for spikes in stress and other negative feelings, such as fear and anxiety.

So, if you are gripped by fear of a particular situation — losing your job, for example — a good laugh can help you see that reality from a different perspective, viewing the challenge as less threatening and remarkably more realistic.

5. Build more relationships of trust

Laughing with someone also creates empathy and, unconsciously, trust among those around you. Notice how much easier it is to connect with someone when, right at the start of the conversation, you are already smiling, joking and being open with each other. This applies both to close relationships and to people we are just getting to know, such as in a working relationship, for example.

6. Resolve conflicts more easily

You have probably noticed how the simple habit of smiling can bring lightness to any situation.

So, whether in the family, at work, at school or anywhere else conflicts need resolving, use this “force for good” to your advantage. A simple chuckle can break the stiffness and heaviness of certain conversations, increasing resilience in that situation.

After all, as Shakespeare put it, you will get more of what you want with a smile than with the point of a sword. Make his words your own!

7. Better interpersonal relationships overall

Smiling keeps negativity at bay and, of course, draws good people closer.

And you can try this experiment anywhere: just head out in the morning saying good morning to people and you will receive an extra charge of energy to start the day well. Smiles are contagious; they bring joy and countless wonderful experiences. Embrace them and you will be happier throughout 2023!

With so many benefits to investing in a smile, its relationship with wellbeing and complete happiness is surely plain to see — wouldn’t you agree? Give it a try and then come and tell us about it or, why not, thank us!

Thank you for reading to the end.