I’ve been watching a lot of stand-up comedy lately, mostly through streaming platforms like Netflix and YouTube. Instead of listening to music or a podcast I play a stand-up special I haven’t seen before. There are a lot of good comedians out there. Some of my current favorites are Tom Segura, Bill Burr, Gabriel Iglesias, Jo Koy, and Iliza Shlesinger. 

Why have I been playing so much stand-up comedy lately? Because it makes me feel good. Laugher is powerful. While music can also lighten your soul, nothing feels better than cracking a big smile or laughing uncontrollably at something you found funny. 

Do you know why we laugh at jokes? Because the ending is unexpected. Think about the last time you burst into laughter. Why did it happen? It’s most likely that you saw or heard something you weren’t expecting.

Laughter has numerous health benefits. It’s a natural stress-reliever that can reduce tension and boost your immune system. It releases endorphins that provide a feeling of happiness and well-being. We’ve all heard that ‘laughter is the best medicine.’ In the difficult times we live in it can be one of the best antidotes to the challenges we face in life, especially if we’re angry, depressed, or feel like everything is falling apart. It can be a form of release.

Laughter is universal. Transcending cultural and even language barriers it can bring people together in a way that few other things can. When you laugh along with others you feel a sense of  connection with them. Laughter can help people bond and establish rapport, creating a feeling of unity and belonging.

Laughter can also be good for your mental health, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety and boosting your mood. It has the power to inspire your creativity by fostering a relaxed state of mind where new ideas can flow freely and has been shown to increase productivity at work and at home.

Laughing regularly can provide you with significant physical, emotional, and social benefits. With all the violence, hatred, and social issues our world faces on a daily basis, laughter is a powerful tool that can bring about positive change in society and our own personal lives. 

If you’re feeling down try to find something that makes you laugh. It’s not a cure-all, but it’s sure to lighten your soul at least a little bit as you laugh your way into a brighter day.