I have been working around the clock lately. With deadlines looming and meetings coming out of my ears, I decided that in order to make it through the next few weeks, I have to schedule in short breaks to relax and unwind. But what to do in these short breaks to rest and recharge? Laugh!

I have an unbelievable group of friends (you know the kind of friends that make you laugh until your abs hurt?) and after an hour in their company, I return to my desk feeling relaxed and ready to take on the world. This system works so well for me (thank you girls, you know exactly who you are), but I realise that sometimes, getting all of your friends together can take some serious co-ordination. If you struggle to get everyone in the same place at the same time, grab one friend and head to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival (and Roadshows for the readers outside of Melbourne). I am booked in twice this week and love it. It is the easiest way to schedule in an hour of laughter that improves your health and wellbeing. Yep, laughter can be the best medicine and here is why:

#1: Laughter relaxes the whole body. A good, hearty laugh relieves physical tension and stress, leaving your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes after!!

#2: Laughter boosts the immune system: Laughter increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, thus improving your resistance to disease.

#3: Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain.

#4: Laughter dissolves distressing emotions. You can’t feel anxious, angry, or sad when you’re laughing. Laughter helps you forget judgments, criticisms, and doubts.

#5: Laughter helps you relax and recharge. It reduces stress and increases energy, enabling you to stay focused and accomplish more.

#6: Humour shifts perspective, allowing you to see situations in a more realistic, less threatening light. A humorous perspective creates psychological distance, which can help you avoid feeling overwhelmed.

#7: Laughter protects the heart. Laughter improves the function of blood vessels and increases blood flow, which can help protect you against a heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.

PLUS…. It is a great abdominal workout!! 🙂 Hop to it!