Tuscaloosa Seniors and the Power of a Laugh
“I love people who make me laugh. I honestly think it’s the thing I like most, to laugh. It cures a multitude of ills. It’s probably the most important thing in a person.”
? Audrey Hepburn
It’s often been said that “laughter is the best medicine.” Tuscaloosa residents at Regency practicing active senior living can certainly benefit from the boost to the immune system that a good laugh produces.
Laughter triggers the release of the chemicals in the body that relieve pain, improve blood flow, relieve stress, and protect against a heart attack. One study of people with diabetes found a group had lower blood sugar levels after watching a comedy than they did after watching a tedious lecture.
How do we create opportunities to laugh in our daily lives? Here are a few suggestions for those living in Alabama assisted living and retirement communities:
Laugh at yourself – Taking yourself less seriously and looking for humor or irony in a bad situation can relieve stress and help us keep things in perspective when we might otherwise wallow in self-pity, resentment or anxiety. Realize that things rarely turn out as bad as we worry, and remember the saying that attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference in our coping skills.
Do something silly – Maturity doesn’t mean losing our sense of childish play. Time spent with grandchildren produces memories of connection for little ones. Watching a funny movie can also instantly improve our mood.
Be Social – Seek out funny people and interact with them. We all gravitate toward people who are fun and seem to have a good take on life. Regency Retirement Village of Tuscaloosa exists for you to make new friends, interact with our caring staff and enjoy a fun-filled lifestyle. Share a joke or a funny story, host a game night with friends, and make time for activities. A laugh is infectious, so you can make others happier by choosing to engage your sense of humor.
Count Your Blessings – Make a list of everything in your life that you are thankful for (things can almost always
be worse!) and feel gratitude wash over you, making it easier to laugh and feel joyful.
These are just a few of the ways Tuscaloosa seniors can tap into the body’s natural feel-good chemicals to get more enjoyment out of life.