Hack to Happier: Laughter

Laughter truly is the best medicine when it comes to feeling better. It has the power to uplift our spirits, relieve stress, and connect us with others.

And this is just what we all need right now, no? I get it - some days, it feels like there is nothing to laugh about.

But if we can take a minute and have a giggle, we’ll give our overtaxed nervous systems a much-needed break.

Why? Laughing releases dopamine and endorphins, reduces stress hormones, and boosts our immune system. Yes please!

Make this hack yours: People can have very diverse senses of humor, so for this hack to work, make sure you’re watching, listening, and reading things that totally crack YOU up. Find people, movies, shows and podcasts that make you laugh until your sides hurt - and hang out with funny or feel-good friends as often as you can!

Practice makes perfect: Have a laughter session with friends or family where you share jokes or funny stories. Join a local laughter yoga group. Practice laughing at yourself and finding humor in situations more often.

Pay it forward: Share your favorite jokes or funny stories with others. Be the reason someone else bursts into laughter! You can organize game nights for people to get goofy together, go to a local comedy club to support comedians, or have a tickle fest with a loved one.

• What are your thoughts about this hack?

• What makes you laugh so hard you could cry?

• Choose one tip from this post to put into practice today!