Laughing Brave: Humour as Our Emotional Lifeline
- Stefan Jurgens
- Jun 12
- 3 min read
Laughter is more than fun; it's a brave emotional lifeline. It disrupts stress, fosters calm & connection, builds resilience, and grounds us in the present, transforming our well-being.
A friend recently shared with me: "When I laugh, everything else vanishes. There are no past regrets, no future worries. I'm completely present. And sharing that laugh with someone else … it’s like we’re instantly connected, completely in sync."
Laughter does more than lift moods; it snaps us into the present and connects us deeply. I learned this by embracing life's messy moments.
While laughter is clearly enjoyable, its deeper value lies in its transformative power – specifically, its unique ability to disrupt stress cycles, create calm, and shift us from tension to ease.
But more importantly: Laughter isn't frivolous—it's wisdom in disguise. Laughing at imperfections isn’t foolishness, but an expression of our resilience.
And true strength isn’t rigid. Instead, it’s the lightness to carry heavy things.
What Happens When You Laugh?
Instant Stress Relief – Laughter dissolves tension. Our shoulders relax, our breath deepens, and tightness we feel fades. It stops overthinking and grounds us right now.
Full-Body Boost – A belly laugh is a mini-workout: it stimulates circulation, offers a temporary immune boost, and even eases minor aches (Yes, nature’s pain relief!).
Mood Lifter – Anxiety or low energy? Laughter is instant sunlight clearing mental fog, sparking creativity, and lightening our outlook.
Connection Catalyst – Shared laughter releases oxytocin (the bonding hormone), while reducing stress. This explains why laughter builds instant connections, breaks down barriers, and strengthens groups.
Find Your Laughter Groove
Laughter comes easiest when you let it find you. Try these simple ways to invite more joy:
Build Joy Into Your Routine – Maybe queue up a funny podcast for your commute, follow a new comedy account this week, or keep a book of witty quotes by your bed.
Surround Yourself with Light – Prioritize people who make your stomach hurt from laughing, not drama. Their energy is contagious.
Celebrate the Chaos – When your Wi-Fi dies mid-meeting or your cat gives you that look, lean into the absurdity.
Own Your Bloopers – Burnt toast? Missed a step? Chuckle at your human moments—they’re relatable, not embarrassing.
Warm Up Your Smile – Smile at baristas, dogs, or bad puns. Laughter often starts as a twitch in your cheeks.
Laughter Looks Different for Everyone
Laughter isn’t always loud or visible, though.
In some cultures or communities, laughter might be more reserved, internal, or expressed through subtle gestures like a smile, a sparkle in the eye, or a quiet breath out.
Some people may not laugh easily, especially if they're carrying grief, trauma, or simply process humour in different ways.
There’s no “right” way to experience or express joy. Whether it’s a full belly laugh or a silent grin, what matters most is the spark of connection or relief it brings you. Let your laughter be your own!
It doesn’t have to match anyone else’s.
Just Keep it Kind & Real
Laugh With, Not At – Aim for humour that connects, not cuts down. Avoid jokes that target people or hide real pain as this creates isolation and undermines genuine connection.
Feel It All, Laughter Included – Laughter is amazing, but don’t use it to dodge tough emotions. It works best alongside feeling things fully, not as a replacement.
Listen to Your Body – In rare cases, intense laughter might feel uncomfortable—especially if you're managing certain acute health conditions. Trust your body’s signals and take it at your own pace. Otherwise, laugh as freely and fully as you like.
Why I Welcome Laughter During Therapy
I’ve found that laughter in therapy is often a breakthrough.
When we laugh at the awkward, honest moments we all experience, defenses soften, and shame lets go. When you can laugh at past pain, that is transformation happening.
Healing doesn’t always look serious. Sometimes it looks like two people laughing in recognition of our messy, beautiful humanity.
The Takeaway
Laughter is more than just fun. It is essential. It resets your mind, deepens connection, and brings you into the present.
So, go ahead and laugh today. Share a joke, enjoy the absurd, or simply revel in being human.
You will feel the difference
At Inner Counsel Therapy, I help individuals to cultivate balanced, compassionate relationships with their goals and self-expectations. Together, we explore ways to embrace growth with kindness and authenticity. Book a free consultation and begin your journey back to yourself.
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