Why laughter is the best medicine especially at work

By Brian Maynor

 

We’ve all heard laughter is the best medicine, but now there’s proof.

In fact, there are several studies that document not only the benefits of laughter, but also its importance, particularly at work.  Wharton, MIT and London Business School all agree there are multiple benefits to laughing.  For example, laughing relieves stress and boredom, increases engagement and well-being, boosts creativity and collaboration as well as analytical precision and productivity.

Here are a few of the documented benefits of laughing at the office:

1.   Physiological.  The Mayo Clinic explains that laughing not only has the mental benefits, it actually causes changes in our body.  When we laugh, we take in more “oxygen-rich air,” which increases the release of endorphins, stimulates circulation and promotes muscle relaxation.

2.    Don’t hold it in.  Some of us are self-conscious about our laugh, especially if we have a loud, unabashed howl and tend to stifle it in professional settings.  However, there are more benefits to letting it out than holding it in.  The Mayo Clinic also says a good, rollicking laugh can increase our heart rate and blood pressure, resulting in a “good, relaxed feeling.”

3.    It’s good for productivity.  One study found that productivity increased by 10% after employees watched a comedy clip and laughed.  Some would suggest this makes laughing not only a good thing for the office, but a necessary one.  Another factor to support laughing in the office was a reduction in both stress and absenteeism among employees.

4.    All things in moderation.  For all of the benefits laughter brings to work, there is a tipping point when it can do more harm than good.  This is especially true for humor that is lewd or disparaging in any way.  If it opens to door to other bad behavior, that’s a sure sign it’s gone too far.

As a whole, laughing anywhere is a good thing, so we shouldn’t be too worried or focused on taking it too far or being embarrassed by our laughs.  It’s not like we’re suggesting laughing all the day every day.  It’s an occasional thing, and thus forgivable.  Plus good manners always require taking into consideration our environment and others so not to be overly disruptive.

 

 

I’m always excited to hear from you, so please email your questions, quandaries and conundrums to [email protected].

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.