I take humor very seriously.

There is a reason that laughter is considered medicine. It buoys our spirits. It gives us energy to keep going when days are tough.

And days certainly look tough right now.

The temptation is strong to let yourself be overwhelmed by everything that’s happening in the world. People are hurting. People are being dehumanized and their rights taken away. It’s normal to feel outraged. But don’t live in the outrage. Feel it, honor it, and release it.

Don’t let this world steal your joy.

We need joy more than ever right now.

We need laughter’s medicine.

Laughter calms the nervous system, allowing it to stay in a parasympathetic state of rest and digest. While in this state, our thoughts are logical and rational and better equipped to make good decisions. When we laugh, we also tap into those feel-good hormones that keep the cogs and wheels needed for daily function well oiled.

Laughter lifts us up when we feel low. It makes the low times survivable. Laughter allows us to break out of spiraling thoughts and emotions. It acts like the little red button on hairdryer plugs, turning off the power if the hairdryer starts overheating. Laughter has the power to reset our overheating emotions.

Find things that make you laugh every day. Make it a daily habit. It can be as simple as sending your friend a funny reel of your favorite comedian. Intending your pun. Watching a kids show like Bluey or Phineas and Ferb. Kids are experts at laughing.

Personally, I like to practice laughing maniacally. It doesn’t take long before I’m really laughing.

Laugh loud.

Laugh often.

Don’t sacrifice your laughter.

Let laughter lift you up.