The Healing Quality of Humor

I have to admit that laughing is one the major defenses I have in my arsenal against depression. I purposefully laugh out loud when I watch something funny on TV. There is just something healing in a belly laugh. Humor has got me through some very difficult times.

So I commend you today to an article titled 9 Ways Humor Heals on the Beyond Blue blog.
Here is the list:

1. Humor combats fear.
2. Humor comforts.
3. Humor relaxes.
4. Humor reduces pain.
5. Humor boosts the immune system.
6. Humor reduces stress.
7. Humor spreads happiness.
8. Humor cultivates optimism.
9. Humor helps communication.

I think that this one excerpt speaks loudly of the value of humor in our lives:

Humor disengages fear because it changes your perspective: of the past and of the present. The traumatic childhood episode loses its tight grip on your heart if you can place it into the "ridiculous" category of other stories from the past. With a playful perspective, you can remove yourself from the marital problem that has you debilitated with anxiety. Laughter forces a few steps--some much-needed distance-- between a situation and our reaction. We all would do well to follow the advice of Leo Buscaglia: "When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on. And swing!"

I recommend that you take a few minutes and check out the post. It is a good perspective.