Laughter is such good medicine. One “young” couple who lives at the nursing home where I work demonstrate that all the time. They both struggle with chronic illness that severely limits their independence, yet I frequently see them laughing together over a memory or a private joke. It makes us all smile to watch them, and adds a dimension of happiness to the atmosphere. Their laughter makes my day, and I’m convinced that it improves the quality of our lives.

Haven’t we all experienced the relaxing effect of a good belly laugh? It’s no wonder that we turn to humour during anxious times. Around a death bed, families recount fond and embarrassing memories and laugh in the face of their sorrow.  An angry moment between spouses, or between a parent and child, is put in perspective with a witty comment and laughter.

There is mounting evidence to show that laughter has immediate and long term health benefits. A good strong guffaw causes a large intake of breath that fills the lungs deeply with oxygen rich air, and stimulates the heart, lungs and muscles. It causes the brain to release endorphins, the same feel-good chemicals that are produced with exercise and are credited with bringing on a “runner’s high”. These physiological responses activate and relieve the stress response and result in muscle relaxation and a decrease in psychological stress. Long term, laughter can help to improve immune response, decrease the damaging effects of stress, and improve mental health by boosting mood and enhancing resilience.

According to Paul E. McGhee, Ph.D (http://www.helpguide.org/articles/emotional-health/laughter-is-the-best-medicine.htm), “Your sense of humour is one of the most powerful tools you have to make certain that your daily mood and emotional state support good health.” It’s not surprising that laughter increases our sense of happiness and intimacy, and connects us with others—two of the most significant conditions of living well to a hundred and twelve.

Fortunately for those of us who see nothing funny in the state of the world, a sense of humour can be learned and developed. First of all, keep things in perspective. There are some things you can control, and some things you can’t. One of my favourite sayings is “Not my circus; not my monkeys.” It helps to remind me that I have no business getting upset about things over which I have no control. So lighten up and don’t take yourself so seriously. Learn to laugh at yourself and at situations.

Make time for fun. Watch children and emulate them. Play with a pet. Goof around. Be silly. It may hurt at first, but the sense of well being that you gain from it will keep you coming back for more.

If silliness is not your thing, begin by smiling more. Even smiling will lighten your load. Enjoy the laughter of others—seek it out and share in it by asking “What’s funny?” People love to share their humour because it allows them to laugh all over again.  If all else fails, make a list of all the blessings in your life. That is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

Just living to a hundred and twelve probably isn’t worth the effort. But “living well” is a whole other thing, and it can’t be done without laughter. What are you doing to put more smiles in your miles?