You have probably heard the phrase, “Laughter is the best medicine” but did you know that it’s actually true?! Think back to the last time you laughed…how did you feel? Uplifted? Was the weight released from your shoulders? Maybe your day got a little bit better. Not only is laughter good for the soul but being able to laugh at yourself also has many practical benefits, including boosting leadership skills and aiding mental and physical health!
Laughter truly can be the best medicine where our physical and mental health is concerned. Laughing at yourself is a sign that mentally, you’re more resilient and able to handle life when it doesn’t go your way. A 2009 study by the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore found how an active sense of humor can even help protect against heart attacks and prevent heart disease.
According to Lifehack, laughter can do the following for the body and mind:
- Stimulate the full body
- Make you feel better
- Increase your immunity
- Promote heart health
- Help lower stress levels
- Increase connection with others
- Burn calories
- Boost mood and confidence
- Help you get through difficult times
Laughter can also help make individuals into better leaders! It has been shown that leaders should be able to laugh at themselves because it makes them real, it makes them reachable, and it helps give others the freedom to laugh at themselves as well.
These three things can also translate for children, especially those who are interested in leadership or performing. Often, those in leadership roles can seem disconnected from the population but by realizing that laughing at themselves is a good thing, it helps them seem no different than everyone else. We are all human and funny mistakes happen. Being able to laugh at those mistakes is what helps us keep our humanity intact!
Humor is a fundamental item in the world of drama and especially useful in our Drama Kids International programs. At Drama Kids International, we know the value of comedy and laughter and are careful to include it in all facets of our drama programs. We love to laugh and love to see children benefit from the joys of laughter.
Interested in finding out more about how laughter can help your child develop leadership skills and confidence? We’re ready and waiting to discuss it with you, as are any of our Drama Kid International locations!