Reflections on Laughter (revised 11/20/2016)

I turned a corner at my gym a few months ago and was so deep in thought that when another woman came around the corner, I jumped. I jumped so high that I actually scared the other woman, who then also jumped. We turned to each other and burst into such intense laughter that we both doubled over. We couldn't even speak to each other as we tried to continue on our separate ways.

Later, I laughed again to myself in my car on my drive home. I chuckled thinking about this before I went to bed that night. Even now, several months later, I find myself snickering.

Laughter is a wonderful thing. Sometimes, though it can be a problem.

More times than I care to remember I sat in a pew at church desperately trying to stifle my laughter. My efforts were so strenuous that I would break out into a cold sweat. My body would shake as I held back my giggles to the point of distress. A mere glance at my siblings would cause an eruption of laughter so loud it would echo throughout the church, causing everyone to turn around and stare. My parents would be humiliated, everyone knowing who hadn't taught their children how to behave in public. I would pray for the clatter of everyone rising to our feet just so I could disguise my laughter in the scramble and noises of the congregation. Even this memory is a little distressing.

We know laughter can be contagious. It also comes in many sizes. We have the chuckle, the chortle, the giggles, a snigger, snicker, cackle or a gafaw, a titter and a snort - just a few descriptive words to describe the verbalization of mirth, joy, or surprise. Or, what happens when we are tickled.

But what exactly is laughter, really?

It can be a physical release of built up tension. Some believe it is even a short-circuit in the brain caused by unexpected or incongruous things. Or, just what happens when we experience two contrary emotions at the same time. (Who hasn't had to stifle laughter at a funeral for the stupidest things?)

It is interesting to note that laughter transcends both language and species. Gorillas, chimpanzees and even apes laugh - which often triggers our own laughter when we are a witness to it at the zoo. I learned that even dogs laugh. I did not know this.

Look up "Laughing Dog" on Youtube for a good laugh. Here is one I enjoyed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xm8-bw3nLMA

The benefits of laughter are well publicized and include a release of endorphins, improved sleep, lower blood pressure and improved immune functioning. Laughter eases digestion, increases blood flow, relaxes muscles and enhances creativity and memory. It also feels pretty darn good. So, why not indulge in a bit of laughter every day.

Here are a couple other favorite videos:
Quadruplets Laughing

Baby Laughing at Paper Ripping
Enjoy!