Laughter Therapy

 

There is truth to that old saying “Laughter is the best medicine”.

Not that laughter really is the best medicine, but it does have both short-term and long-term benefits that help with our physical and mental health. This speaks to the mind-body connection.

Laughter helps with anxiety and depression. It helps people release fears, anger, and stress. Laughter can make it easier to cope with difficult situations. Also, laughing with others – with, not at the expense of, others – strengthens the bond in these relationships.

Physically, some short-term benefits of a good laugh include increased endorphins, increased blood flow, and muscle relation. Long-term benefits include strengthening your immune system and relieving pain.

Here are some ways to bring more laughter into your life:

  • Spend time with people who laugh easily – at themselves, at life’s absurdities, and at everyday events.
  • Laugh at yourself – comedians are great role models for laughing at yourself
  • Look for the humor in a bad situation
  • Keep reminders around you – on your desk, car, mirror – to remind yourself to find the humor in things

I like to bring humor into the therapeutic setting when appropriate. But the good news about laughter therapy is that you can do it on your own. I am in the middle of binge watching the sitcom New Girl. I laugh out loud at that show and my mood has improved. I encourage you to find your go-to’s that help you find the silver lining in the difficulties of life.

Get in touch.

I'm always happy to hear from people.

If you have any questions, need more information, or would like to make an appointment, you can call me at 301-279-7779, email me at BethLCounseling@aol.com, or use the form below.

If you are searching for a “therapist near me,” that could be me.  I see people via teletherapy, so I am a therapist near you! 🙂 I provide services to people in Maryland, Virginia, and DC.

13 + 6 =

Licensed Clinical Social Worker • Over 15 years of experience • Certified Emotionally Focused Couple Therapist and Supervisor • Member of The Greater Washington Society of Clinical Social Work • Member of the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy • Member of Clinical Social Work Association • Member of National Association of Social Workers

Serving Washington DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia through teletherapy, including Georgetown, Tenleytown, AU Park, Downtown, Rockville, Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Kensington, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Potomac, Silver Spring, Arlington, Fairfax, Alexandria, Leesburg, Clarendon, Springfield, Great Falls, Annandale, McLean, Burke, Vienna, Tysons, Reston, Ashburn.

Phone:  301-279-7779
Email:  BethLCounseling@aol.com

Hours by appointment only

© 2024 Beth Levine