How to Laugh

Laughter is the best medicine for what ails you, but it can be difficult to find humor in the world and actually laugh. All hope is not lost, because there are ways to find that elusive elixir of life--you just have to know where to look.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Let go. Give yourself permission to feel giddy and light-hearted about life. Taking things too seriously can lead to stomach ulcers and stress. Take time out of everyday to look at the funny side of life and laugh.

2. Turn on the funny. Look for humor. Check out your favorite comic strip in the paper, pick up your favorite witty author, or turn on the T.V. for a laugh. Comedians can usually deliver a laugh or two. You can also lean on a favorite old comedy or sitcom to make you laugh.

3. Make light of your follies. Laugh at yourself every once in a while. This doesn't mean turn to humor to deflect judgement, it just means that when you make a mistake it is okay to laugh.

4. Lean on memories. Think about the time someone spewed milk out of their nose, or random funny stories in your past. Laughter can come from anywhere, and drawing from your memory is the easiest place to go.

5. Take advantage of your kids--or someone else's. Children make us laugh because they tend to be unencumbered by life as adults are. Take time to spend time with a child in order to make yourself laugh.