By By Adeola Adejokun
Okay, let’s be honest. Life in Lagos is one long episode of Jenifa’s Diary — full of drama, stress, and plot twists you never see coming. You’re dodging Danfo drivers, arguing with your landlord, and trying to remember if you paid your estimated EKEDC bill or just dreamt about it.
But what if I told you there’s a simple, accessible, and surprisingly effective way to combat all that stress? Laughter. Yes, that thing you do when your friend tells a terrible joke or while watching those ridiculous cat videos on Instagram.
It turns out that science agrees with the Book of Proverbs, which says, ” A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones .”
Here’s the gist:
Stress Buster: When you laugh, your body releases endorphins, those feel-good hormones that act like natural painkillers. They also help reduce stress hormones like cortisol. So laughter is like a mini spa day for your brain.
Immunity Booster: A good laugh can strengthen your immune system. It increases the number of antibody-producing cells and enhances the effectiveness of T-cells, those little warriors fighting off infections.
Mood Lifter: Laughter triggers the release of dopamine, another brain chemical linked to happiness and pleasure. So, next time you’re feeling down, try watching a funny video or calling that friend who always makes you crack up.
Social Connector: Laughter is contagious. It’s a way to bond with others, strengthen relationships, and create a sense of belonging. And let’s face it, we could all use more of that in this crazy world.
Mental Muscle Builder: Laughter is like a workout for your brain. It enhances creativity, improves memory, and helps you solve problems more effectively.
So, how do you get more laughter in your life?
Surround yourself with funny people. You know, those friends who always have a hilarious story to tell or can make you laugh even on your worst day.
Watch comedies, read funny books, or listen to humorous podcasts.
Don’t take yourself too seriously. Learn to laugh at your mistakes and find humour in everyday situations.
And most importantly, just let loose and have fun! Life’s too short to be serious all the time.
Remember, laughter truly is the best medicine. It’s free, it’s fun, and it’s good for you. So go ahead, laugh your stress away and enjoy the ride!