Empower Newsletter – August 2020
Welcome to the August 2020 edition of the Empower Newsletter. This month the focus is on looking at how powerful laughter is to you and your wellbeing. Sometimes it can be the simplest things that make all the difference. |
Did you know? |
Laughter improves your wellbeing!
With everything that is going on in the world you may not have found much to laugh about in recent times.
You may have even found yourself dwelling on worry, loss and disappointment without even realising it. These feelings will only increase the unpleasant feelings.
Because what you focus on is what you get!
For example, if you focus on all of the things that are going wrong in your life, you will definitely find them and that is all you will see.
So instead of focusing on your hardships, you can change your mood and improve your mental wellbeing instantly by focusing on things that make you laugh and feel happy.
Science shows that laughter helps you to stay mentally healthy, whilst humour lightens your burdens, inspires hope, connects you to others, and keeps you grounded, focused, and alert. It also helps you release anger and to forgive sooner.
So if you want more laughter in your life, start my setting an intention that you will make it happen.
You can start by smiling. Smiling is the beginning of laughter, and like laughter, it’s contagious. When you look at someone or see something even mildly pleasing, practice smiling. Notice the effect it has on others.
Make a list of things you are grateful for. The simple act of considering the positive aspects of your life will distance you from negative thoughts that block humour and laughter.
When you hear laughter, move toward it.
Spend time with fun, playful people. These are people who laugh easily, both at themselves and at life’s absurdities, and who routinely find the humour in everyday life. Their playful point of view and laughter are contagious.
Bring humour into conversations. Ask people, “What’s the funniest thing that’s ever happened to you?”
And enjoy the benefits that your laughter will bring!
Laughter is an instant vaction! ~ Milton Berle ~
Definition |
Laugh
To express mirth, pleasure, derision, or nervousness with an audible, vocal expulsion of air from the lungs that can range from a loud burst of sound to a series of quiet chuckles and is usually accompanied by characteristic facial and bodily movements.
Something to Ponder |
The link between laughter and mental health
Laughter stops distressing emotions. You can’t feel anxious, angry, or sad when you’re laughing. Laughter helps you relax and recharge. It reduces stress and increases energy, enabling you to stay focused and accomplish more.
Laughter shifts perspective, allowing you to see situations in a more realistic, less threatening light. A humorous perspective creates psychological distance, which can help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and diffuse conflict. Laughter draws you closer to others, which can have a profound effect on all aspects of your mental and emotional health.
Quote of the Month |
“Laughter is, and will always be, the best form of therapy.”
~ Dau Voire ~
Affirmation Corner |
‘I laugh all the time and it makes me feel good.’