Are you having a laugh?

It should be as natural to us as breathing, but we often forget to have a good giggle. Here’s how to get more laughter in your life

- JENNY STALLARD

From a spirited giggle to a deep belly guffaw, there’s nothing quite as infectious as laughter. But as adults, have we lost the ability to let go and laugh? Unlike a baby or toddler who will happily chuckle at their own reflection, we’re often bogged down by the stresses of day-to-day life, and even have to prearrange laughter ‘doses’ with TV shows or comedy nights. But laughing is a key part of wellbeing, with studies showing that it releases feel-good endorphins in the brain*. Just like a good gym session, a hearty laugh or two (or three) can leave us full of positivity. Indeed, research found that laughter can have the same effects as longterm gym attendance.** So, considering it’s a free and easy way to boost the body and mind, who’d like to do it more often?

Happy hormones