How to Boost Your Self-Esteem When You're Having a Bad Day

What is it about a bad day that can take the wind out of your sails and make you feel so drained?

Your mindset controls your moods and hence your level of energy. How a bad day is labeled as 'bad' - is completely due to your internal language. Bad days often begin with things happening that were not expected (for instance, missing a train, breaking a bag, misplacing keys) and these things can create a mindset that things are not going to go well today. As you focus on all the things that begin to go wrong, your level of agitation and frustration rises and this drains your energy. In addition your internal language becomes more negative and self critical - which can result in further energy depletion and even depression.

Some of the common symptoms after a bad day

Do you ever feel drained, hopeless, or unmotivated? One of the common emotional responses to a bad day are feelings of hopelessness. One of the most common thoughts are that nothing is going to go right. Poor motivation then sets in because you feel you have been kicked whilst trying to get up and hence self protection sets in - to avoid further disappointment.

Someone with a higher self-esteem will see the bad day for what it is - just a bad day where things didn't go their way. However, with less resilience many people start to feel defeated as a result of a negative series of events and subsequently need something good to occur to shake them out of their negative mindset. An example of this might be, that whilst travelling on the train that was running late, a little toddler begins to laugh so loudly, you can't help but start laughing too.

So what are your fun and helpful tips you could use to rebound after a bad day?

One of the easiest and most simple things you can do to shake off your bad mood, is to try to find the ridiculous humour in the day. Find ways to laugh at how crazy the series of events have been and try to find the funny side if possible. If the day has been particularly bad, remind yourself that every day offers the opportunity for a new beginning. Remember to focus on what went right today.

It's often easy to see things through a negative filter and to assume nothing went right. However, this is rarely accurate. By putting the day into perspective and reminding yourself that you can always make things better, you can let the bad day go and start fresh tomorrow. The key is to regain control of your thinking patterns, so that you feel hopeful and in control on your day ahead once more.

https://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Boost-Your-Self-Esteem-When-Youre-Having-a-Bad-Day&id=9847885

How To Make Yourself Likable

Pleasing personality doesn't necessarily means that you have to be beautiful. You can be likable if you are sincere and treat other people with respect. in my field of work, I have noticed that people who frequently ask questions to a new acquaintance are often well-liked. By nature we are helpful. Most often than not, we always want to share what we know especially when someone appears to need our help, we are always there to extend any assistance they need and provide answers to their queries.

Other people do not like people who talk more. But this is quite the opposite. If you want to be liked, you need to be more open especially when you are in a foreign country. You have to be a good conversationalist. The secret is to be a wide reader and an effective listener. When you listen, you can easily find common grounds to talk with.

Moreover, over-communicating puts people at ease. But it's also important to pause once in a while to listen because likable people are always good listeners and are genuinely curious to learn new things. The best communicators talk and talk but still have time to listen for a response. That makes them more likable.

A no-strings-attached approach to helping others also makes you more likable. Never expect anything in return. Make sure that you are really sincere because those who help just to be liked always reveal a manipulative trait. However, this is easier said than done. It requires a lot of effort. When you do, you will find that more people will like you.

It's hard to hate someone who has a carefree approach to life. Usually, the most-liked people are those that can fill a room with laughter. Those people who are easy to be with and who can laugh despite the odds of life. It might not be in your nature to joke around but make sure you are ready to see the humor in something. Even if sometimes, the joke is already off the belt, just don't take it seriously. Be someone who can laugh easily and smile often. By doing this, you will win people over.

It's better to see the real picture in life instead of the ideal. Oftentimes, the serious people are essentially acting selfish because they focus too much on their personal issues without realizing that highly likable people at work are those people who can set aside their issues and go with the flow. They are not selfish.

Admitting weaknesses makes you more likable. You are after all a human being who is subject to some imperfections!

https://ezinearticles.com/?How-To-Make-Yourself-Likable&id=9922268

How to Make Yourself Stress-Free

Stress- this is one of the biggest problems of people in the present era. Almost every second person is stressed, no matter what is the reason behind it. If you are looking for different ways to overcome this condition, here they are:

• Breathe Easy! Take a Deep Breath- this is the easiest and reliable method to let the stress go. For centuries, this method is in use. It has been found that shallow breathing, on one side, causes stress while the deep breathing, on another side, oxygenates your blood and clears your mind. So, whenever you feel stressed or depressed, breathe in and out slowly & deeply, concentrate on your lungs and see the magic!
• Laugh Loud! It has been proved that laughter releases endorphins that decreases the level of stress-causing hormones (Cortisol and adrenaline) and makes you feel better. In case you encounter with any stress-causing situation, laugh aloud! You can also watch some comedy show or cartoons to laugh at your fullest.
• Listen to Music! Music is a great medium of healing! It has been found that music brings a positive effect on your body and mind. It can reduce cortisol and control blood pressure as well. So, if you are stressed and need a break, just put on some calm music. Actually, you can play a playlist having the best positive, inspirational songs so that you can divert your mind and feel the positive vibes.
• Talk to Yourself! Sometimes all you need is to talk to yourself- to your inner soul! Do not worry how others might react- just try to find the solution of your problem from within you. And console yourself that everything is going to be okay.
• Exercise! Exercise does not mean you have to run in a marathon or do power lifting at the gym. A short walk or simply stretching is also enough to enjoy relief from a stressful situation.
• Talk to Your Best Friend! A Good relationship is key to a healthy lifestyle, a happy life! When you are stressed, pick up your phone and have a talk with your friend, family or your loved ones. You might be surprised to know, but a conversation of even two minutes can change your
• Eat Right! Fruits and vegetable as well as fish with high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids have been seen as a great method to reduce the symptoms of stress. So, next time when you feel stressed, have an adequate diet.

https://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Make-Yourself-Stress-Free&id=9650934

A Chuckle A Day, More Than An Apple, Keeps The Doctor Away

Are You Laughing Enough?

When did you last have a really good laugh? How many times a day do you smile? How much fun do you get out of life?

It isn't much of an exaggeration to say that 'laughter is the best medicine'.

Laughter can help keep you healthy. And when you're ill, laughter can make you well again.

Take the case of Norman Cousins, for example.

He had been assured by his doctors that there was no cure for the inflammatory disease that was crippling him.

The doctors told him that they could do little to help him.

But Norman, an American magazine editor, wasn't prepared to give up.

He took himself out of hospital and moved into a hotel room. There he spent his days watching his favourite comedy films and reading books by his favourite funny writers.

Not only did Norman feel better. The doctors looking after him found scientific evidence to prove that laughter had helped to cue him!

Doctors still don't know how laughter can help to cure the human body.

We do know that it improves breathing, lower blood pressure and releases special healing hormones.

Even smiling can help.

There is evidence that when you smile, your whole body becomes calmer. Try it: next time you're feeling miserable, try putting a really cheerful smile on your face. You'll find it difficult to stay sad.

Try making your eyes sparkle with laughter and you'll feel jollier than ever!

To find out if you're getting enough laughs, answer the following ten questions:

1. How often do you have a really good laugh?

a) At least once most days

b) At least once a week

c) At least once a month

d) Not very often

2. If some one plays a (harmless) practical joke on you, do you:

a) See the funny side straight away

b) Usually see the funny side eventually

c) Usually fail to see the funny side.

3. When something amuses you, do you:

a) Smile inside

b) Laugh out loud but try to restrain yourself

c) Laugh out loud and let yourself go

d) Smile and chuckle quietly

4. You're making love. Your partner suddenly starts to giggle. Would you:

a) Be surprised, offended and hurt

b) Want to know what was so funny and then probably start laughing

c) Start laughing straight away - even if you didn't know why

5. How many books can you name that have made you laugh out loud?

a) None

b) 1 or 2

c) 3 or more

6. How many films can you name that have made you laugh out loud?

a) None

b) 1 or 2

c) 3 or more

7. How many comedians can you name who make you laugh?

a) None

b) 1 or 2

c) 3 or more

8. How many TV programmes can you name that have made you laugh out loud?

a) None

b) 1 or 2

c) 3 or more

9. You're at a party and a group of friends start to behave in a silly way. Would you:

a) Join in straight away

b) Maybe join in

c) Watch

d) Keep out of the way and leave as soon as possible

e) You don't have any friends who would behave like that

10. A street entertainer has gathered a huge crowd - most of the people are laughing. You're not in any hurry. Would you:

a) Stop and enjoy the show

b) Sneak a quick look but then carry on

c) Hurry by without looking

d) Hurry on and look for a policeman so that you can make a complaint about the noise

Now check your score!

a) 4; b) 3; c) 2; d) 1

a) 3; b) 2; c) 1

a) 1; b) 3; c) 4; d) 2

a) 1; b) 2; c) 3

a) 1; b) 2; c) 3

a) 1; b) 2; c) 3

a) 2; b) 2; c) 3

a) 1; b) 2; c) 3

a) 5; b) 4; c) 3; d) 2; e) 1

a) 4; b) 3; c) 2; d) 1

If you scored 25-35

You laugh a lot. You're undoubtedly fun to be with. You're a great tonic to friends - and strangers. And you're doing your health a lot of good!

If you scored 17-24

You have a fairly healthy attitude but you tend to hold back sometimes. Maybe you feel guilty about being seen to have a good time. Maybe you feel embarrassed if you are seen laughing. Maybe you feel that you're too old, or too important to be seen laughing. Stop worrying! Let your hair down, follow your natural instincts and don't let your fears about what other people will think interfere with your desire and ability to enjoy yourself.

If you scored 16 or less

You really do need to loosen up and take yourself less seriously. Are you, perhaps, a little pompous? Do you maybe take yourself too seriously? Let more laughter and fun into your life and loosen up a little and you'll probably enjoy life more, make more friends and be much healthier.

Quick ways to put more laughter into your life

1. Try to spend as much time as possible with cheerful people. If you spend all your time with people who have long faces and always look on the black side then you'll acquire a long face and gloomy outlook yourself. Depression is contagious. Bright and cheerful friends will help make you bright and cheerful.
2. Try not to take yourself too seriously. You don't have to be pompous to get the respect of other people.
3. Make a list now of your favourite funny films and books. Keep a library of your favourite funny videos and books. One businessman I know reads comics on the train - hidden inside his daily paper. He says they make him laugh and help him to relax.

WARNING

Not all types of humour will improve your health!

A professor of psychology at Central Michigan University in America claims that the type of humour you listen to determines how healthy you'll be.

James Carroll, says that:

• cynical comedy increases your chances of falling ill.
• humour that puts down authority figures can make men ill.
• self-deprecating jokes make women ill.

As a general rule, clown comics are good for you. Satirists are bad for you!

http://ezinearticles.com/?A-Chuckle-A-Day,-More-Than-An-Apple,-Keeps-The-Doctor-Away&id=9713706

Laughter Really Is the Best Medicine (By Kathleen Dwyer-Blair)

One of my favorite things to do is to laugh. I just love how it feels to experience that seemingly uncontrollable belly laugh that jars the body and the system and feeds my soul. It doesn't matter what triggers it.

My Laughter could be triggered by:

• Jimmy Fallon or Tina Fey

• A funny joke a friend tells

• My husband's natural funniness

• Something I've done unexpectedly that makes me laugh at myself

• My dog, Keegan, running around with her squeaky toy shaking her head and booty

• Watching a child dancing, or how they bask in the little wonders of the world

It just feels so delicious and there is no better emotional release, at times, than unabashed laughter.

Did You Have Your Daily Dose of Laughter?

Take notice, do you find yourself laughing often, or is this a rare occurrence? If laughter is uncommon, what may be standing in the way of your laughter, or the ability to find lightness in experiences?

We've talked before how tears are necessary and an amazing and important way of releasing pain, stress, or trauma. Laughter may be equally as important as a way of releasing distressing emotions. Our bodies may even crave laughter, even if we are not aware of it.

Laughter has been known to...

• Lower stress

• Release endorphins to improve mood

• Heighten immunity

• Increase tolerance to pain

• Help enhance and or mend relationships

• Improve relaxation and sleep

... be contagious.

Embracing the Silliness in Life

I feel blessed to have beings in my life that just make me laugh. I do believe that I have manifested this for myself since laughter is so important to me. If laughter is significant to us, it means that we may want to surround ourselves with people and experiences that allow us to laugh.

I do love to share deeply with those in my life and equally love to laugh with them. This for me creates balance. Just allowing ourselves to feel the joy, the silliness, the playfulness, and the levity in our experiences.

"Laughter helps us roll with the punches that inevitably come our way. The power of laughter is unleashed every time we laugh. In today's stressful world, we need to laugh much more."

~ Enda Junkins, LCSW, LMFT, BCD. Known as the Laughing Psychotherapist.

Seeking Out Our Inner Playful Self

If bouts of spontaneous laughter are few and far between, it might be helpful to be mindful of what we do find funny in everyday experiences. Or does life feel so serious that we have not found room for silliness, playfulness, or humor?

If we don't know how to organically tap into our inner playful self, there are ways that we could explore what may help us to laugh.

Finding Your Funny:

Only we can identify what we find funny. If we don't know what makes us laugh, we can take some time to connect and explore possible things that may help to bring out our laughter. If laughter never came naturally, we might need to do a little research to find our funny bone.

http://ezinearticles.com/?Laughter-Really-Is-the-Best-Medicine&id=9649896

Message From the Universe: Smiling Is the Cure to All Problems

"Great big, ear-to-ear, open mouth smiles are responsible for far more sizzling romances, salary increases, life extensions, and calorie burning than your dentists, doctors, and financial planners will ever comprehend.

Show us your tonsils,

The Universe"

So what are you waiting for? Smile, laugh, make others laugh, be the funniest person in the room if needed, but as long as you make others and yourself smile, you remain the savior of the evening. People will always remember the people who made them laugh, who helped them feel better in a moment of sadness, a moment of depression or frustration. I know it can be hard to forget your problems all at once, but laughter appease the pain and sorrow. Even when everything around you doesn't seem to go the way you want, by working on delivering a smile, despite your existing problem, you are tricking your own subconscious mind that all will be alright, which enables you to produce that smile. From this point forward, your new found smile will help you revise the problem and no longer feel as dramatic and complex as it was in the beginning. You will approach it in a different perspective, with a different solution. All your worries will no longer plague your mood and you will feel better, even if the issue isn't yet fully resolved. Your mind will be presented with multiple effective solution as you address the problem. This is the power of your smile.

I agree it may be hard to smile when everything around you goes sour but will feeling worse help you find a more effective solution to your dilemma? I don't think so. It is all about perception and the key to solve every problem in your life is to take a step back, analyze the issue, know that you are smarter than the problem itself, that nothing can bother you and that you will respond to problem with a big smile, just to claim that you are in control of your life and nothing can make your feel unhappy. This approach will help you feel better and more apt to solving every issues you will face in your life. Let's be real here, as every human beings on Earth will be confronted with big problems, but the ones who succeed will face these problems in a calm and collected manner and with a big smile on their face. Why not be a part of that 1% of the population? The choice is yours.

http://ezinearticles.com/?Message-From-the-Universe:-Smiling-Is-the-Cure-to-All-Problems&id=9722892

Laughter In Our Aberrant Time

The "Science of Laughter" is not a concept to be laughed off as absurdly trivial. Indeed, the power of mirth that produces guffaw is one of the most potent forces that can address the varied crises of our sordid time. We live in a time of nuclear threat; terrorism & refugee crisis; unemployment; poverty & sickness. If humor & laughter cannot cure all evils, it can surely enable us to survive the difficult times and develop a system of immunity within us to fight back the negative impacts with replenished energy!

Laughter keeps our life "flowing" when things, at large, seem to have come to a standstill. Apparently, the ridiculous or the nonsensical are taken for granted when a friend lifts up our low spirit with a merry joke. The hilarious photographs on Pinterest, & also, Cat videos & Bonobo monkeys on You Tube, seemingly, serve no purpose other than providing amusement. But when we introspect about the same it can be realized how these different items of entertainments provide support to our mental & physical health!

The slap-stick antics of a hilarious Chaplin comedy or the extremely funny British sitcoms, Black adder, & Mr. Bean, played by the great comedian, Rowan Atkinson, can transport our insomniac brains to an elevated state of glee! Suddenly the crude; the mundane & the mechanized world appear colorful and our perspective changes for the better! Even in the comedies of Shakespeare we discover how merriment & laughter has always been a survival instinct for mankind! When Antonio croons on his "sad part" in the world, Gratiano answers,

"WITH MIRTH AND LAUGHTER LET OLD WRINKLES COME"( Merchant of Venice, Act 1)

To lend credence to the belief of the greatest dramatist of the Jacobean age, modern science, today, affirms the tremendous significance of joy & laughter as a powerful defense mechanism against the problems of our day to day complex existence. It is recommended as "the best medicine" that heals us to be able to face the death threats that often show up in varied forms in different parts of the globe. It is time to take" humor seriously" or "seriousness humorously".

The Academy award winner, Roberto Bengini, in his "Life is Beautiful" has well exemplified the assertion that laughter is valuable even in Holocaust- related contexts! In a different setting, Charles Chaplin in his "The Great Dictator" presents us with a brilliant caricature of Hitler's serious ambition to project himself as a demi-god! In both the films, though of different times, laughter is a weapon against the oppressors. Bengini's film affirms the beauty & worth of life despite Holocaust & its grim reality. It is an affirmation that life can rise above the harsh realities of time if we can laugh off its seriousness!

However, human life is not just threatened by the impact of terrorism, oppression & brutality. The menace could be internal if it is triggered by the fear of death caused by incurable/ fatal diseases that afflict the human body.

Herein lies the role of the "Hope Doctors "whose emergence is a new, world- wide phenomenon. The heart of the idea is to introduce jocularity amidst the suffering patients who have been confined within the hospital wards and cabins for years. Laughter in a hospital is not a common sight. It is also not common to run into medical clowns within its ambiance. The concept of using trained professional comedians for therapeutic support has not gained ground around the world. Hence, it is unthinkable to apply in a country like India where hospitals wear a grim look of pain & fear.

Nevertheless, a former TV Journalist in India Diya Banerjee's Documentary" The Hope Doctors" surveys the new trend through the efforts of Fif Fernandes, a former nurse with hospitals in Canada, who has introduced the new idea in India. Assisted by her husband, Hamish Boyd, she operates with the Aaravind Eye Hospital in Pondicherry. Besides, the documentary explores how Ashwath Bhatt, a well- known comedian, is a regular visitor of pediatric cancer ward of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Delhi.

The comedian visits with his company who are the funny actors with red noses & colorful wigs. It is heartening to see how their antics generate a chirpy atmosphere among the ailing children. One can hear twitters & happy squeals echo through the children's ward in AIIMS, one of India's largest public hospitals. The funny facial expression of the silver haired lady, and the guffaws she generates among the sick children, is highly fulfilling to watch!

Being funny can be a serious job as the "Hope Doctors" believe that the trained performers can complement the medical treatment through mime, music & dance which could immensely contribute to the benefit of the serious patients, alleviating their pain, and thus, improving the atmosphere of the hospitals.

It is curious to know that the renowned advocate of the philosophy that "Laughter is the best medicine", the American doctor & humorist Patch Adams, was the greatest inspiration of Robin Williams, the actor who expressed laughter in seriousness & seriousness in laughter with subtle touches!

Indeed, we may conclude that the idea to mingle comic skill with nursing expertise for the general well-being of the patients is a unique one! It is positive & cathartic in its implication. Hence, medical clowning should not be perceived as an appendage but a practice that can be embedded in the Holistic Health Care System. Scientific evidence corroborates that healing speeds up with the strengthening of the patient's mental health. Laughter lights up our mind to rejuvenate our body.

So always laugh whenever you find chance because it is the cheapest medicine found in the world!

CAN FUN & LAUGHTER BE THE HEALER OF OUR ABERRANT TIME?

Indeed it can! There is no doubt that this life is a serious business and just "not an empty dream."

However, it cannot be cheerless and bereft of joy and laughter. Lack of mirth kills the essence of "vitality" within us which is needed to counter the disharmony and the force of destruction that has been threatening our day to day existence. Noble deeds can be performed only by a harmonious spirit which is the gift of inner happiness. One may find the inspiration of joy and laughter even in the preachings of Christ, the Messiah of Love and Forgiveness!

Proverbs: 17.22:

"A merry heart doeth good [like] a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones."

Psalm 126:2:

"Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, "THE LORD has done great things for them". [The Bible]

If we explore the genesis of the idea that laughter & mirth, generated by humor, is an elixir for our physical & mental well-being, we must refer to the multiple verses found in the Bible, to strengthen our view. We wonder at the practical wisdom expressed in the Bible when we find, how, today, the doctors all over the world, assert the multiple health benefits of laughter generated by humor.

http://ezinearticles.com/?Laughter-In-Our-Aberrant-Time&id=9611970

16 Tips to Brighten Up a Dark Day

There are a great deal of things that can darken your day. Maybe storm clouds are covering up the sun or you simply learned that your son needs braces that will cost more than your last automobile. If you need fast relief, have a look at these fast and easy treats for your body and mind.

Quick Ways to Brighten up Your Mind

1. Count your blessings. Cultivating appreciation makes you happier. Draw up a long list of things that you're grateful for and post it someplace where you can see it throughout the day. Tell somebody how much they mean to you.

2. Hang out with good friends. Connect with others. Invite a bunch of friends over to view a movie and eat popcorn.

3. Volunteer in your neighborhood. Support a deserving cause while you take your mind off your problems. Pull weeds for elderly neighbors or do fundraising work for a local charity.

4. Invest in others. Studies show that money can purchase joy when you invest it in others. Surprise your mom with a heated mattress pad to help her sleep. Or, go to your local fast food restaurant and buy some meals for any of the homeless in your area. Trust me, that alone will brighten your day fast!

5. Head outside. Experiencing nature raises our spirits. Have a nice picnic lunch in the park.

6. Learn a new skill. Adding to your achievements offers lasting fulfillment. Sign up for an online course or ask your next-door neighbor to show you how they keep their yard so green.

7. Laugh aloud. Smile wide and think of something that makes you want to chuckle. Watch funny cat videos on YouTube or think about the funny thing that took place at your kid's school play.

8. Listen to some positive music. Positive music is contagious. Put together a playlist of songs that make you want to dance and be joyful. Sing along with the band and notice how happy you begin to feel.

9. Pet your dog if you have one. Your dog is an excellent role model for teaching you how to put aside your cares and just live in the moment. Let him or her cheer you up when you're feeling blue.

Quick Ways to Brighten up Your Body.

1. Breathe deeply. Breathing has an effect on how you feel. Focus on the flow of oxygen going into and leaving one nostril. Follow your breath down through your throat and chest. Feel your stomach rise and fall.

2. Lower your shoulders. Scan yourself from head to toe. Open up any areas of tightness and tension. Draw your shoulders back and down.

3. Massage your feet. You may be cranky because your shoes have actually been pinching your feet. Kick them off and dip your toes into a tub of warm water. Dry off and roll a tennis ball around under your arches.

4. Try aromatherapy. Choose an invigorating fragrance like grapefruit or peppermint. If you're agitated, select relaxing lavender or sandalwood.

5. Move around. Exercise is a natural and advantageous stimulant. Accelerate your heart beat with some laps around the track or ten minutes on an inclined treadmill. You might even play a game of catch with your children.

6. Stretch out. Want a yoga pose that will perk you up? Sun salutations will do the job. To calm down, rest on your back and extend your legs straight up against a wall.

7. Rest. On the other hand, maybe you're dragging because you need more rest. Take a short nap and go to bed early so you'll be bright-eyed and fresh tomorrow.

Some days are gloomier than others, but you can be prepared for conflicts and difficulties. Utilize these pick-me-ups or develop your very own techniques that keep you smiling and content no matter what's going on around you.

http://ezinearticles.com/?16-Tips-to-Brighten-Up-a-Dark-Day&id=9449313

8 Considerable Reasons To Develop A Sense Of Humor

If you have an interest in enhancing your health, brain, social life, and state of mind, attempt to laugh more. Having a good sense of humor is beneficial to several elements of your life. A well-developed sense of humor has incredible advantages. Chuckling and smiling aren't frivolous activities. So, stop being so serious and discover why humor is so important.

A sense of humor has numerous benefits:

1. Reinforce your health. The more you laugh, the less regularly you'll be sick. Studies have actually revealed that laughing enhances the body's immune system. It likewise decreases your risk of high blood pressure, which is great for your heart and brain. It's possible that laughter can lower your medical costs.

2. A funny bone is attractive. Who does not like to laugh? We're instinctively drawn to individuals that laugh easily. Everybody wants to have fun and release their stress.

If you're enjoyable to be with and you understand ways to make others laugh, you'll find yourself surrounded by others who likewise have a common sense of humor.

3. Reduce stress. Day-to-day living can be pretty demanding. There are lots of ways to relieve tension, however few feel as good as a good laugh. With a common sense of humor, it's easy to find various reasons to laugh about life. A great laugh will permit you to forget your difficulties for a little while.

4. Boost your mood. It feels great to laugh, and the good feelings can last for hours afterwards. Humor can reroute your focus from the negative happenings in your life to something more pleasurable.

5. Boost your social life. Whether you're trying to find brand-new friends or searching for the man or woman of your dreams, having a funny bone, or sense of humor, is important. Think about the most popular people you know. Are they upbeat and do they smile easily? Or do they do not have a good sense of humor?

6. Benefit others. Your state of mind, words, and actions affect those around you. When you're in a bad mood, it adversely affects others. Your smiling, pleased face and state of mind are uplifting and lighten up the moods of those around you.

7. Reinforce your relationships. Is it possible to have a relationship that would not take advantage of your sense of humor? Laughing together will bring you closer. You'll find that your relationships with your neighbors, pals, family, and coworkers take advantage of your ability to laugh and appreciate the lighter side of life.

8. Increase your intelligence. At the minimum, you'll learn more quickly. A study demonstrated that laughing stimulates the learning centers of the brain. Promoting those areas regularly is believed to boost the ability to learn and retain new information. Laughing might assist you to get a scholarship to Harvard.

Laughing is good for you. Your sense of humor effects your health, state of mind, social life, and those around you. They say that, "Laughter is the best medicine." Now you have a better understanding as to why that statement is true. Discover the humor in life and keep your state of mind light. There are no benefits to expecting the worst and experiencing negative moods.

Spend time with others who take pleasure in laughing. Make it a point to take pleasure in funny movies or watch your favorite comics. Your laughter helps you and those around you. Feel free to laugh more.

http://ezinearticles.com/?8-Considerable-Reasons-To-Develop-A-Sense-Of-Humor&id=9490823

You're an Individual and Matter Just Like Everyone Else (By Rene Bastarache)

I was walking along the beach this morning deep in thought when something up ahead caught my attention. Sitting on top of this endless beach of fine, white sand was a small round object.

As I approached my curiosity began to grow and it stood out from anything else around it like a shining beacon. Then I picked it up and upon examination I realized it was a little round sponge washed ashore by the waves.

I stood there examining it for a while in my own little world. Where did it come from? Had it been in the ocean for months traveling through all the tidal currents or did it originate just a few yards away? I studied the beauty of its shape and texture being careful not to damage it. Then of course as you can see I took a couple pictures of it and placed it back where I found it allowing it to continue its journeys.

Why am I writing about something so insignificant you might ask? It got me thinking about how unique we all are as human beings. There's so many of us and oftentimes I see people who say they feel insignificant as if they don't matter. They feel as if they're like everyone else and just don't stand out in any ways but they couldn't be more wrong. Thus the reason for this article!

"You're an individual and matter just like everyone else"

I thought I'd use a silly title like this to describe a serious concept. We're all individuals and we do "all" matter but "not" like everyone else.

* You are the only person out of billions that is exactly like you. 

* No one can be better at being you than you are. 

* You're perfect just the way you are... Yes some people have issues but it's important to separate what you are with you behavior; two different things. 

* Remember when anyone points the finger at you complaining about anything it is simply a reflection of what they don't like in themselves. Don't let them bring you down and keep in mind that it's "their" agenda, not yours. 

* Finally, just like that sponge that brought me a bit of happiness on the beach you too have the ability to make people happy.

If you don't believe me then just take a moment right now to stare at yourself in the mirror with the biggest smile on your face that you can and keep staring to see what happens... I dare you to! If you're like most of us breathing individuals out there you to will begin to laugh.

Try it... and keep your eyes open for beauty in simple places.

http://ezinearticles.com/?Youre-an-Individual-and-Matter-Just-Like-Everyone-Else&id=8799179

You Got Triggered, Now What? Reflections on Mindfully Moving Through a Stress Response (By Jennifer C Jackson)

I had just done the very thing I advise people not to do. I was all relaxed and ready for bed, but decided to check my email one last time. In truth, I had been having a tense online conversation, and was hoping to find a peaceful resolution in my in-box. Unfortunately, the opposite was true. Our miscommunication had taken an even worse turn and now there was a toxic blast waiting for me. Sure enough, I could feel my heart racing, my brainwaves moving faster, and stress hormones coursing through my body. Not what you want when preparing for sleep!

In the past this would have completely overwhelmed me. As my body moved into fight or flight, panic would have set in - both around the content of the email and the fact that my body had moved completely in the opposite direction of sleep right at bedtime. I would have felt like a helpless victim. Sleep would have been out of the question for that night and this one little incident could easily have started a two month bout of insomnia.

Now I can't say I was able to go right to bed after this and fall into a deep, peaceful sleep, but I did have strategies in place that helped me keep my power and perspective, and drastically shorten the effects.

In this case, the very first thing I did was laugh! What was I thinking checking my email like that when I knew a toxic nugget was a possibility? I had broken my own rule and now I was paying the price. Okay, so be it. I was clearly going to be awake for a bit, so it was time to make the best of the situation.

When my husband went to bed, I settled down on the couch, knowing I might be there for a while. I became very present with the physical stress symptoms. I tapped on my racing heart and mind and the stress hormones I could feel rushing through my body. I tapped and tapped until it became slightly less intense.

Next, I took this as an opportunity to grow and learn. What about this email had triggered me so badly? What part of this could I own? What could I do differently next time to avoid a miscommunication like this in the future? What lesson, gift, or gem might be buried in this situation? As I answered these questions in my journal, I tapped on the various responses. Finally around 1:00 a.m., I felt my body shift and knew I would be able to get some sleep. It was not my best night, but far better than it would have been in the past.

It took a few more days of deep inner work and tapping to fully mine the gem out of the situation -- and my sleep was off for a couple of nights as well. However, because I managed to stay present the whole time - both with my mind and with the effects on my body - I never felt out of control or helpless. I knew resolution would come one way or another and that my sleep would calm down as well.

After a time, the situation did resolve. It was not the way I would have originally chosen, but I know now it is the highest and best resolution for all concerned. And my sleep has been great!

http://ezinearticles.com/?You-Got-Triggered,-Now-What?-Reflections-on-Mindfully-Moving-Through-a-Stress-Response&id=9494500

11 Super Simple Techniques for Conquering Loneliness

Who hasn't been lonesome at one time or another? Loneliness is among the most typical emotions. No one is immune. While nobody escapes loneliness, it's possible to minimize the unfavorable sensations connected with being alone. A couple of basic strategies can make isolation simpler to bear. Try to hang out with others and keep a favorable mindset.

Try these techniques to minimize your sensations of isolation:

1. Avoid isolating yourself further. For some odd reason, when we feel lonesome, we're likely to withdraw even further. This is a big error. It's easy making yourself feel even worse. Others can supply a dosage of truth, too. While you're beating yourself up, there's nobody to challenge that truth. Spend time with others.

2. Be good to yourself. Caring for yourself can be the best cure for solitude. After all, if you find yourself alone a lot, you're most likely afraid of letting others get near you. Raising your self-image can make it simpler to connect with others.

3. Be nurturing. Looking after a kid or pet, for example, can minimize sensations of solitude. If you do not have a pet, this might be the perfect time to obtain one.

4. Get a hobby that involves others. Take an art class. Start a coed softball team. Sign up with a bowling league.

5. Volunteer. Leaving your home can be simpler if you think it's for a great reason. Offering your time and attention to a worthy charity might be all the inspiration you have to hang around with others in a positive environment.

6. Call an old buddy. Remember the past with an old buddy. In between Facebook and the internet in general, it's simple to locate anybody not in the witness protection program. An old buddy would enjoy hearing from you.

7. See something funny on TELEVISION. All negative feelings are more difficult to experience while you're chuckling. Use that Netflix account and re-watch the very first season of Seinfeld or another old favorite. Make yourself laugh and you'll feel less lonesome.

8. Go someplace brand-new. Even if you don't have the cash to acquire a ticket to Bali, you can still go on a little adventure. Identify a neighboring town you've never ever visited and take a drive or get on a local bus and see where you end up. Novelty is an efficient way to avoid sensation lonesome.

9. Clean the house. Really clean it. You'll feel more control over your life and it will keep your mind inhabited for a few hours. You'll also be gotten ready for any guests that may come by.

10. Feel appreciation. Take pen to paper and list everything in your life that makes you feel grateful. Add to the list each day and spend a little time reviewing your list.

You'll definitely feel much better and might gain some understanding into why you're lonesome. Take a look at your list whenever you're feeling down.

11. Take yourself on a date. Supper and a movie can be enjoyable, even if you're alone. You can eat precisely what and where you desire. You can even choose the movie. For once, you don't have to compromise.

Isolation is an indication that you need more human contact.

The world has plenty of humans, so there's lots of opportunity to hang out with others. Go out the front door and engage with other people. Invest your alone time doing something intriguing and you can say goodbye to those feelings of loneliness.

http://ezinearticles.com/?11-Super-Simple-Techniques-for-Conquering-Loneliness&id=9443583

6 Reasons to Laugh More

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

I was in a mall recently with my husband when we passed an elderly woman with a serious scowl on her face. (Have you noticed that older people seem to scowl a lot?) There are plenty of studies that prove it takes fewer muscles to smile than it does to frown, although I don't know why. Gravity has been working on our frowns for decades now and it shows!

Anyway, I turned to him and said, "Remind me as I get older to smile more. I don't ever want to look like an old sourpuss."

I don't know why older people seem so out-of-sorts and angry. We've lived through decades of trials and tribulations, raised kids and cared for parents, worked more hours and overcome more catastrophes than I'd care to count, and survived it all. That should be reason enough to grin. Whew!

Age, of course is relative. There are plenty of 'youngsters' who look like they suck on lemons, too. They seem to be so caught up in the drama of their lives that they've forgotten joy and humor. If they would only realize that laughter is one of life's secret weapons. It helps overcome trials at every age.

Bernard Baruch, a businessman and politician, used to say, "I will never be an old man. To me, old age is always 15 years older than I am." He lived to a ripe young age, missing his 95th birthday by just two months. Almost every photo of him shows at least a slight smile on his face, and that is something to emulate.

I remember as a kid, my mom and I played board games at the kitchen table after my siblings went to bed. Some silliness would set us both off and we'd laugh until our tummies hurt. I've enjoyed moments like that with girlfriends, as well as my hubby (who keeps me laughing much of the time). In fact, I laugh much more now than I ever remember during my early adult years.

The benefits of laughter are widely researched, but the bottom line is, laughing just makes you feel good. The more you laugh, the better you feel. Here are some other benefits of laughter.

Laughter soothes stress.

Happy is he... whose hope is in the Lord his God (Ps. 146:5). Did you notice that happy goes hand in hand with hope? Hope and happiness are the opposite of discouragement, pessimism and fear. Laughter is the antidote for every conceivable concern, trial or dilemma. It reduces stress and eases tension by changing the chemicals released by the brain. When things get tough, I've learned to laugh on purpose. (Try it, it works!) And thou shalt be secure, because there is hope (Job 11:18).

Laughter improves health.

A merry heart doeth good like a medicine (Prov. 17:22). Laughter is healing. Physically, it increases your heart rate and oxygen intake. After a good laugh, your body relaxes. Laughing also increases the production of endorphins, which are your body's natural pain killers.

Have you noticed how much better you feel, both physically and mentally, when you laugh? And, the more you laugh the better you feel! Unlike bottled medications, there are no negative side-effects to laughter so you can't overdose. Laughter is a great mood-enhancer. You won't need drugs (legal or illegal) if you'll put more laughter in your life. Hope thou in God, who is the health of my countenance and my God (Ps. 42:11).

Laughter eases depression.

Laughing, both at funny stuff and at yourself, lessens tension and depression. Shared laughter is therapeutic, so much so that laughter therapy is recognized as a valid psychological treatment.

Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth, and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth (Eccl. 11:9). I've heard it said that 'youth is wasted on the young'. Too often, youth is so wrapped up in negatives - what they don't have, what they can't get, 'what's wrong with me', that they ignore opportunities for joy.

Laughter puts things in perspective.

... whoso trusts in the Lord, happy is he (Prov. 16:20). One of the advantages of 'older' is the ability to relax in trauma and turmoil. The angst of my younger years has been replaced by experience, knowing that even the most difficult circumstances usually sort themselves out. You and I are stronger than we believe, but that understanding usually comes from hindsight. The ability to laugh at yourself and your situations makes them seem less dire. In the world ye shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer: I have overcome the world (John 16:33).

Laughter makes you look younger.

A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance... (Prov. 15:13). The Bible talks a lot about joy and a merry heart. God's commandments (the full list, not just the Top Ten) included lots of feast days with wine and food. Why? Because He enjoys a good party as much as we do! David danced before the Lord. Even their sacrifices were offered with great joy, for God had made them rejoice with great joy... so that the joy of Jerusalem was heard even afar off (Neh. 12:43). That must have been some celebration! And it happened often in both the Old and New Testaments.

Smiling is the quickest, most pain-free, least expensive face-lift available. Don't believe me? Stand in front of a mirror and practice. Your eyes brighten; your face looks friendlier. Actually, I remind myself often throughout the day to smile, whether anyone is watching or not. I just want the practice.

Laughter produces strength.

No matter how difficult your situation seems, find something to laugh about. The Bible proclaims, the joy of the Lord is your strength (Neh. 8:10). Joy is defined as great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying, keen pleasure or elation. The ability to laugh at yourself and your circumstances helps keep them in perspective. Be strong and of good courage; dread not, not be dismayed (I Chron. 22:13). It's hard to be dismayed when you're laughing.

Solomon, one of the wisest men who ever ruled God's people, recognized there is a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance (Eccl. 3:4). Life's troubles are many. We all know that. But if you will put more laughter in your life, those troubles will seem less... well, troublesome.

You are God's child and a joint heir with Jesus! You've got all the power of heaven behind you! Paul reminded the Philippians, who were dealing with some significant issues: Rejoice in the Lord always; and again I say, "Rejoice!" The Lord is at hand. Fret not about anything... (Phil. 4:4, 6). Instead of being upset or depressed, laugh!

Your attitude is your choice. You can choose giggles or gloomy. So why not laugh on purpose? Laugh because it feels good. Share a smile (or a joke) with everyone you meet. Put more laughter in your life!

For more information on developing life skills, better relationships, and becoming the best YOU possible, visit http://seebecksolutions.com and sign up to receive your FREE subscription to "Solutions For Success", a weekly ezine of inspiration, motivation and humor from a Christian perspective.

https://ezinearticles.com/?6-Reasons-to-Laugh-More&id=9086593