I really hope that your answer is yourself. Studies have shown those of us who can laugh at some of the idiotic things we do only builds our self-esteem. It is estimated that 2 out of 3 people suffer from low self-esteem. The next time you are out for lunch with your friends, take a good look around the table and access if you, literally, are the lucky 1.
The ability to laugh at ourselves allows us the opportunity to embrace our imperfections, flaws and promotes self-acceptance. How many times have we heard that laughter is the best medicine? There are oodles of reports and studies detailing the health benefits from having a good sense of humour. Laughter can strengthen your immune system, prevent heart disease, boost your energy, diminish pain and reduces stress. One study even went as far to say that laughing can actually help reduce weight. What? Think about that for a moment. When we are feeling stressed or depressed, a high percentage of people will turn to something to pick us up or give us immediate pleasure: food. And it usually is not the good or healthy kind. It will be the type of food that was wrapped in paper and the containers were most likely ‘super-sized!’
Humour has just as many external and social benefits as it does for our internal health. Laughter can be shared. It can bind and bring friends and family members closer together. It increases happiness, joy and triggers healthy physical changes in the body. Laughter keeps us young in our mind, body and soul. Best of all, this medicine will not cost you a dime. It’s priceless, easy to swallow and you will never have to run out in the middle of night to get your prescription refilled. Laugh yourself back to higher self-esteem, better health and a happier life. And that my friend, (pardon the pun) is no laughing matter!
About the Author: Kim Malchuk considers herself an ordinary woman, a storyteller, a motivational coach. When cancer took her husband, Mel, during the height of their romance, Kim made a choice to keep Tasting Rain despite her overwhelming loss. She then embarked on a poignant, soul-searching journey that led her to a place of rediscovery, peace and hope. Learning to trust her feelings and pursue her dreams, Kim turned her personal tragedy into personal empowerment, reawakening her spirit to love, laughter and living a life of inspired purpose. A best-selling, award-winning author and highly-acclaimed public speaker in Canada, Kim shares her secrets to success openly, with charming “Kiminitions” that define hope, happiness and healing. Challenging audiences to embrace her “Why Not Now?” philosophy, Kim is an outspoken believer in the role our thoughts play in governing the course of our lives.
Reprinted from September 2011
