Mid-semester is often a stressful time for everyone. Midterms, exams, papers, and projects all seem to pile up at once and you are suddenly left with no free time at all. Everyone is tense and worried about their own workload. This can often lead to harsh attitudes and bitter tones even between your closest friends. The best way to avoid this unnecessary drama is laughter. Laughing immediately puts you in a better mood and lightens your spirits. Just think about it, have you ever felt mad or annoyed while laughing? Laughing with other people also helps you feel closer and can help strengthen relationships.
Along with the mental and emotional health benefits, laughter can also improve your physical health. Laughing eases your muscles and relaxes your entire body, relieving physical tension and stress. It also boosts your immune system by increasing immune cells and antibodies and protects your heart by increasing blood flow and improving blood vessel function.
So next time you are feeling stressed or even just sad, try finding things to make you laugh. Talk to someone funny or look up funny videos on YouTube (the animal voice overs always work for me). Once you find something, share it with your friends or family. Not only will you feel less stressed and enlightened, but you will also make a stronger connection and improve a relationship in your life.
To learn more about the benefits of laughter and how to improve your sense of humor, check out Help Guide.