Laughter offers many health benefits, both physical and mental.
Incorporating laughter into the workplace can improve the environment, promote workers’ well-being and increase productivity.
What are the health benefits of laughter?
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Improves the emotional health of individuals
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Better quality of sleep
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Promoting creativity
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Reducing stress: laughter helps reduce levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress.
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Improves the immune system: stimulates the production of cells that strengthen the immune system.
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Improves cardiovascular health: laughing can improve cardiovascular health by increasing blood flow and improving blood vessel function.
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Pain relief: can help reduce the perception of pain, increasing tolerance.
When we laugh, we move around 400 muscles in the body, which says a lot about the power that strong laughter can have on people’s well-being.
In addition, we produce and release a number of fundamental substances, such as:
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Serotonin: works as a natural antidepressant, so its impact on mood is extremely important;
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Endorphins: responsible for feelings of pleasure and well-being;
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Dopamine: equally important for a general mood;
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Adrenaline: determines our alertness and, consequently, our capacity for attention, focus and concentration.
How can laughter be incorporated into the workplace?
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Laughter therapy sessions: organize laughter therapy sessions, where workers can take part in funny and interactive activities to promote laughter.
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Humor in the workplace: encourage a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, this can include relaxed moments, for example.
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Social events and recreational activities: promote social events and recreational activities that encourage interaction between employees.
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Fun meetings: introduce fun elements into meetings, such as team building activities.
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Relaxation space: create relaxation spaces where employees can relax and unwind.
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Celebrate humor in achievements: celebrate achievements and milestones, recognizing effort and success in a light and relaxed way.
Remember that it is important to ensure that activities are inclusive and respect the sensitivities of all employees.
The aim is to create a positive and healthy environment for everyone in the workplace.
Watch the video here with Dr. Maria João Couto, Clinical Psychologist at SEPRI Medicina no Trabalho.
Read also: Managing anxiety at work – techniques to calm down
