There’s no way around it – if we want to be happier, we have to laugh more. And the best way to start is with ourselves!

Over the past few years, I’ve watched the body of research around the health benefits of laughter grow. Besides releasing positive hormones that create more of a sense of well-being, laughter can have positive effects on just about any aspect of our lives. Think about it – doesn’t the world seem better when you laugh?

Of course, laughter shouldn’t be cruel or made at the expense of someone else’s feelings. Laughter that is base and tinged with nastiness doesn’t lift anyone up or promote kindness and joy.

But laughter that uplifts, that allows us to see the quirky side of life and that helps us not take ourselves so seriously that we forget how beautiful and wonder-ful this world and life are – that’s the kind of laughter I try to get more of each day. And, yes, at at least one point during the day, there is something about myself that I just have to laugh at.

Make fun of? No. Just shake my head, chuckle and smile, embrace with warmth and a light laugh. That’s the kind of uplifting moment I mean.

Finding the hint of funny about our lives helps us balance those times that are harder and heart-wrenching. It also brings out the oh-so-human side of us and helps us better appreciate God’s greatness.

Today, take a moment to laugh. Let the sound ripple around you as beautiful music. Because it is – and you are – blessedly human!

Joy and peace,

Maureen