Thursday, November 5, 2009

Laughter - The No Cost Wonder Drug

I know, the last thing you think about, or even want when you're seeing the abyss on the horizon or even hanging on by your fingernails as you're slowly descending into the depths of hell, is - hmm...I could use a good laugh right now. "I haven't got time for that nonsense" or "can't you see I'm in pain here" might be the reaction to "hey, let's chuckle it up".

But for those who truly want to conquer their state of affairs, re-design a situation or experience a fresh tolerance for their circumstances, then laughter is one healthy, well-documented doorway to achieving success in tackling your troubles or winning over your woes.

When doom is looming - take a break a have a laugh.
When darkness is descending - call a comic friend.
When gloom is gathering - check out the funny pages.
When the abyss is beckoning - turn on the boob tube or YouTube, unbuckle your pants and let 'er rip.

Laughter is a major instrument in the toolbox of "personal mastery". And it needs to be used, honed and cared for in order to keep it working well and serving you to the max. So when happenstance happens, take out your laughter tool and let it works its charm.

In taking a break from your stress you can count on the fact that your troubles will be waiting for you when you've finished laughing it up - much like dirty dishes do. But if you're feeling lighter from laughter, your troubles may present a solution or illuminate a different perspective. If you're feeling happy, you might even "Whistle While You Work" and get those dishes done.

Laughter isn't the answer to your troubles, but it is the suave that soothes a troubled soul and a place of rejuvenation. It gives you a break from the tribulations of life. Its one of the many gifts we humans have. It costs nothing yet pays tremendous dividends - like unattended guilt, its the gift that keeps on giving.

Here's What I Do
When I'm dealing with one of the chronic crises in my life, I take a break and turn to my YouTube favourites and chuckle away. My perspective changes and I'm better able to problem solve (or whatever the situation calls for). Sometimes I even watch the Sham Wow/Slap Chop guy commercials - but hey, it works just me. Here's some other amusing tricks I use to get myself guffawing and knee slapping like a speeding bullet.

Laughing Babies - Who doesn't at least smile at babies giggling away? And before you know it you're chuckling yourself. There are some amazing examples on YouTube. Grab a cuppa java on a rainy Saturday morning, explore it and be ready to chortle, titter and LOL the AM away.

George Carlin, Chris Rock, Wanda Sykes, Robin Williams, Joan Rivers & More - These Kings/Queens of Comedy are brilliant at their craft and they make you think too. Once again YouTube has a plethora of material to choose from.

1. YouTube is a fabulous place to create a "favourites" folder so you can turn to it in a flash.
2. Get to know the comedians in your life - observe how they view and respond to the world.
3. Take an improve class at Second City.
4. Create some funny shtick for a family or friends gathering.
5. Join or observe a comedy troupe for a holiday from life.

Remember we are what we focus on. So in times of stress, challenge or pain, take frequent breaks, buckle up the chuckle belt and take a ride on the highway of laughter.

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