In the hustle and bustle of daily life, we often overlook some of the simplest tools that can enhance our wellbeing. One such tool, often underestimated, is humour.
Let’s explore how we can harness the benefits of humour mindfully to uplift ourselves and those around us.
1. The complex nature of humour
Humour involves more than laughter; it includes timing, intuition, and creativity. While laughter can result from various triggers, humour specifically involves seeing the funny side of life.
2. Humour’s evolutionary role
Humour is universal across cultures and may have evolved to enhance social behaviour and belonging. It likely developed before speech and helps signal to others that a threat is safe.
3. Wellness benefits of humour
Humour broadens perspective, helps cope with pain, stress, and adversity, and improves social interactions. It releases positive hormones like serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin, making us feel good.
4. The fine line
Positive humour uplifts and fosters connection, while negative humour can be aggressive, belittling, and alienating. Positive humour is more effective in helping people cope with difficult situations than disparaging humour.
5. Mindful application
Incorporating humour into your life mindfully isn’t just about being funny—it’s about being kind, empathetic, and aware of the energy you bring into your interactions. So, the next time you find yourself reaching for a joke, pause for a moment.
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Research even shows that positive humour is more effective in helping people cope with difficult situations than its negative counterpart. So, when you use humour, think about the impact it might have. Is it bringing people together or driving them apart?