Do you remember the last time you had one of those belly aching laughs where tears are streaming down your face and whatever you are drinking comes through your nose? Laughter is the best medicine and as busy adults, we forget to kick back, be silly, and have FUN!
The image above is a fond memory of mine. Every Christmas eve, the whole family would head over to grandma and grandpa's house for stockings, Irish coffee's, and mosh pits. Despite all the drama and friction that can happen in family dynamics, it was these small wonderful moments that have imprinted themselves in my memory forever.
Did you know that even the thought of a happy memory can increase endorphins, decrease stress, improve your mental health, and boost your immune system? It's the same concept as thinking of a sour lemon and then you start salivating.
Just thinking about laughter and good times can trigger a series of chemical reactions in the body that can calm stress immediately.
But have you forgotten how to have fun or do you find you're meeting some resistance? Let me give you a few ideas to ponder as we enter this festive season:
Dress up for Halloween. Be silly with it. Put on glitter and a wig.
Go to a playground and literally go down the slides. I promise you won't get to the bottom of the slide without a smile on your face.
Go to a festival that you normally wouldn't attend. Bring a chair, kick back, put the phone down, and ENJOY the atmosphere!
Watch a classic festive movie that brings you right back to good memories.
Enjoy the fall colors and fresh air on greenways or nature trails local in your communities.
Take an adult dance class - even if you don't know how to dance. That's why they have classes- to LEARN.
Turn off the news, take off your smart watch, and unplug for real. Pull out those board games and have fun with the kids. Engage with your family on a Sunday evening or in the middle of the week.
Having fun can be simple and something we can do anywhere at anytime. We just need to be reminded that life shouldn't be all about work, chores, and the hustle.
Slow down and enjoy precious moments with the people that matter most to you. Laugh and relax a little. These simple pleasure's in life are exactly what we need in this all-too-serious time.
I once asked Grandma Jones what her time during the Great Depression was like. She answered, "oh, it was wonderful! We stayed home, played games, and spent time with each other." This is of course the same grandma that sprinkled magical fairy dust of happiness over everyone. ; )
In good health,
Dr. Lexi
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