Let the Laughter Flow to Boost Wellbeing

In this blog, Deborah Hulme explores the wellbeing benefits of laughter and social connnection as a basic human need.

WE ARE 30 TIMES MORE LIKELY TO LAUGH WITH OTHERS THAN WHEN ALONE

Laughter exists across the mammal community and is closely associated with social  interaction.  We humans may laugh at jokes we hear on the TV or radio, however we are  according to Robert Provine (2022) the world’s leading scientific expert on laughter, 30 times more likely to laugh with others than when alone.  Its another reason why staying connected and engaged is so important to performance and wellbeing.

LAUGHTER SIGNALS AGREEMENT AND CONNECTS US WITH OUR TRIBE

Laughter demonstrates understanding, signals agreement and reinforces the fact that we form part of the same tribe.  It enables us to regulate emotion together, reduces stress and helps us feel better, even in the most trying of circumstances.  It’s also highly contagious, particularly when situated within a group of people we know whether that be family, friends or work colleagues.

We should always let the laughter flow.  As Sophie Scott said, It opens the door to an ancient evolutionary system that allows us to make and maintain social bonds.  It helps us feel better and, importantly, enables us to pull together in the good times and also during those challenging times.

When was the last time you connected with the people who make you laugh the most?  Making plans to meet up will be time very well spent.

Stay well to perform well.  Find out more about the ways in which we can boost wellbeing for greater resilience through change in our Brain-Friendly Change Programme here.