Laugh your way to joy…

Laugh your way to joy

One day…I was snuggled deep into my insulated, camo overalls and  went out into nature, a crisp, nostril freezing morning…to take photos. I was with friends and we were getting into a helicopter. The wind from the rotor blew me over into the tall grass and someone took this shot.

This post is about...laughing. Hence, the above photo. When you saw it, did you smile? Looking at a photo of someone smiling or laughing actually causes a smile reaction. The corners of your mouth turn up and that muscle movement starts the beginning of a chain of events in your body. As you smile, your body relaxes a bit, causing adrenalin not to be pumped out as much because you have signalled to your brain that the threat is not as “threatening”

The Bible advocates laughter but heck. You don’t have to know scripture to know it feels good.

A cheerful look brings joy to the heart; good news makes for good health. Proverbs 15:30 (NLT)

A cheerful heart is good medicine. Proverbs 17:22 (NLT)

A relaxed attitude lengthens a man’s life. Proverbs 14:30 (TLB)

Your immune system is boosted by a smile and laughter. Studies have been done…I won’t quote them here.

Even if you are mad…if you can consciously fake a smile, there will be chemicals released into your system that will lighten your mood. Think about it… you can’t sing and be mad. Ever try it? Singing can make you cry with relief and laugh or smile with joy but it’s not a way to get mad.

Smile at yourself in the mirror. Smile as your reading this on your phone or tablet…then pass it on! Just look up and smile at someone!