Ever notice how often young children laugh? It is the most elevating, glorious sound ever – and we often find ourselves laughing along whether we know why or not. Laughter is contagious. It is a profound gift from Mother Nature that keeps us happy and healthy.

So why do we laugh less as we age? Perhaps the obvious answer is that with maturity comes responsibility comes stress comes chaos comes... life. Not always hilarious. Yeah, I get all that – but with maturity, we also have choices. And laughter is one of them.

You know how you feel after an uncontrollable bout of crazy laughter? It’s such a release; there’s a wonderful calm, a sense of fulfillment... and an abundance of physical benefits. So how can you bring laughter back into your life? I’m so glad you asked.

LAUGHTER 101

• Smile often. Lighten up. Can’t laugh without first smiling. Plus it’s your best look.
• Engage others. When you consider all the things we talk about, why not ask someone what made them laugh today... you may be surprised by all the funny answers.
• Surround yourself with happy triggers. This could be a photo that makes you smile, a screensaver that evokes a giggle, or any decoration/memento that amuses you.
• Laugh at...YOURSELF. We all have those cringe-worthy moments. Instead of blushing and hiding, share them; laugh at them; own them.
• Let frustration transform to entertainment. Okay, so you may have to work at this – and I know some situations are just not funny – but there is often tremendous humor in our day-to-day situations. Train your brain to find them; life is funny. 
• Find your happy tribe. It takes a village – aka – optimistic friends who like to laugh. There is a lot to be said for a joyful and funny point-of-view.

And don’t forget that the most serious of us may break down in uncontrollable laughter while watching a funny movie, visiting a comedy club, playing a game with family and friends, reading a hysterical book, or frolicking with a cherished pet. Try a new adventure – kayaking, white water rafting, ziplining – and remember, the more you laugh, the better you feel, and the more happiness you share with the rest of us.