Did you know that the mere act of smiling can make you feel happier? Research has shown that the muscles in our face, when smiling, send a message to our brain that changes our mood, instantly!

Laughter truly is medicine! Laughter Therapy is used to help people alleviate stress and increase their sense of well-being. Some people have even formed laughter clubs. But as parents, we have a built in laughter club: Our kids!

Children love a good belly laugh, a silly joke and a playful romp. They can laugh easily if given the chance!

In our household, we have been turning to silly laughter when things get stressful or frustrating. It can be difficult at first to start the laugh-out, but once we get going, it is contagious. It releases the same amount of tension as screaming and creates a whole lot more connection than losing our tempers.

Our neighbors might think we have gone bonkers when we are hysterically laughing and hooting, but we are willing to risk it.

So what else can laughter do for you?

• Releases endorphins, raises serotonin levels and lowers stress hormones


• Lowers your blood pressure and heart rate


• Boosts your immune system


• Helps you maintain a healthy weight


• Increases a positive attitude to allow for more creative, proactive thinking


• Helps shift the moods of people around you, increasing connection

Leave a comment with your favorite joke (clean, please!) so we can all have a laugh!