Laughter Has a Way of Bringing People Together

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Laughter Has a Way of Bringing People Together

Humans, chimps and the great apes are the only creatures known to laugh. Chimp laughter is limited. It seems to occur only when there is direct contact or when apes are engaged in a game, akin to tag, where there is a likelihood of physical contact. Human laughter is far more varied and complex. We chuckle at all sorts of things, from funny noises and slapstick to witty jokes and comic strips. But we chuckle best when we are with other people. People are about 30 times more apt to chuckle in a social setting than when alone. Part of the reason is that laughter is infectious. Have you ever heard someone else's silly chuckle and out of the blue found yourself chuckling or even doubled over with your own laughter? The mere sound of laughter triggers something inside of us, something that wants to mimic or respond. That's why many television shows use chuckle tracks. We tend to respond more quickly and more strongly to a comedian's jokes when we are encouraged by the sound of others laughing. Laughter also helps to bring people together. We don't think about laughter. We just do it. When we are in a group, it could start a chain reaction that reduces stress. It can be a release from building tensions. Laughter is something we can share. It reminds us of our commonalities fairly than our differences. Of course, there are also times when laughter can be used like a knife to cut into our self-esteem and make us feel ostracized. That is the difference between feeling like you are laughing with someone (brings you together) or you are being laughed at (makes you feel rejected). The best way to handle being laughed at is to learn to chuckle at yourself. Once you can do that, several things happen. First, you are no longer really laughing at yourself as a person. You are actually reacting to whatever action or circumstance triggered the laughter in the second place. Second, you take away the power and any sting that might have been intended by the laughter of others. Third, you may actually start bridging the gap between yourself and those who laughed at you. Laughing brings people together. Differences between groups start to dissolve once everyone starts laughing. You can become a magnet for others by practicing some simple techniques. Practice smiling. It really does make a difference both to your sense of well-being and how others see you. Bring humor into conversations.

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Laughing

Having a good laugh

Having a great laugh

Laughter