Laughter is a drug! Where can I get it?

Laughter is a natural drug that triggers a release of various neurochemicals in our brains that alter our frame of mind and create spikes in our emotions.

In simple terms, laughter lifts the feeling of joy. It fosters and builds a shared bonding and trust. It improves the mood and reduces stress. It can also help block out pain.

We all know this. We all experience it.

Now get this. There is a science to it. Laughter triggers real chemical reactions in our brains.

You may be familiar with some of these neurochemicals. By laughing, our brains release dopamine - the feelgood drug. Moments of bonding and trust are fed by the oxytocin hormone. Serotonin promotes a sense of well-being and is a mood changer.

Endorphins are the body’s natural pain killers and contribute to the high feeling one experiences after laughter.

All these drugs… they are literally inside us. We literally have them on tap!

The trick is to know how and when to turn the laughter tap on.

Humour exists everywhere within all of us. Everyone is funny. Everyone can make someone laugh. Everyone. In my life I have not met a person I have not laughed with. That said, I accept that laughter at work can be a moot point, but it is safe to say that we all need more of it in the workplace, especially when you tap into the unquestionably positive neurochemical effects.

One sure-fire way to explore and embrace laughter in the workplace is through the medium of improvisation. Improv comes in two forms. Improv for entertainment; the obvious one you will be familiar with. And IMPROV to Solve which is designed specifically for the workplace. Both forms use the same techniques, both instil fun and both evoke laughter. The difference with Improv to Solve is it’s practical for the workplace.

IMPROV to Solve, it’s super-serious in its purpose whilst also making for a more enjoyable workplace.

IMPROV to Solve. Try it! Go on, I dare you!

first published on 16 May 2024