According to the American Psychological Association, adults are reporting the highest levels of stress since the beginning of the pandemic. For our ancestors, stress was a necessary form of survival, as our fight-or-flight response prepared us to escape from real danger. Today, that fight-or-flight response can still play an important role in protecting us, but when our bodies go into a state of stress over our work or other non-life threatening situations, we are actually harming ourselves.
Thankfully, April is Stress Awareness Month, and it comes at the same time as National Humor Month. Laughter can be an effective way to combat burnout and stress, so we’ve shared a few tips to inject a little more humor into your day.
Watch funny videos, TV shows and movies.While your latest Netflix obsession may be a binge-worthy thriller, the intensity of certain drama and action shows may not be ideal for helping you de-stress. Instead, watch a favorite funny movie or stand-up comedian to lighten the mood. You can also turn to YouTube and TikTok for shorter light-hearted videos. Here are a few funny TikTok videos to get you started!
Put humor right in front of you.
Find the things that make you laugh and put them in a place where they can easily be seen or accessed. Consider buying a daily calendar from a favorite comic strip, or frame a silly photo with friends or family that brings a smile to your face. You can also go to your local bookstore and pick up a joke book that you can turn to when you need a good laugh. If you’re more of a digital person, create a Pinterest board with your favorite videos, jokes and memes.
Do something silly.
Try out an art project that you may not be good at. Do a cartwheel or a dance routine you haven’t done since childhood. Sing, even if your voice is completely off-key. Take time for leisure, and don’t worry about doing everything perfectly. It’s okay to laugh at yourself! The joy is often in the journey or the actions, not the destination or final product.
Share the laughter!
Chances are, you aren’t the only person in your circle who is experiencing stress. Check in with your community – friends, family, even coworkers – to see how they are doing and try to incorporate lighthearted moments into your interactions. Download a joke app like Laugh My App Off and share your favorites with the friends who will enjoy them.
Whether you incorporate one of these tips or all four into your life, making room for laughter in your day is a surefire way to alleviate some of the pandemic burnout we have all been facing.
Looking for more ways to destress? Check out the Stress Management Society for Stress Awareness Month resources, along with online workshops and assessments.
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