Good morning, my fellow fabulous parents-
This past Friday night, my parents hosted a multi-generational dinner (this happens every few weeks), and we all went around the table and shared our Highs and Lows of the day. My High was the amount of laughing I did with my son that afternoon. There was more laughing together during that dinner from the youngest at the table (age 6) to the oldest (age 76), and it filled us all up!
As a clinical psychologist focused on fostering positivity, I often emphasize the value of laughter within families. In the hustle of daily life, it’s easy to forget the simple joy of sharing a good laugh with loved ones—but those lighthearted moments are more important than you might think.
Laughter has incredible psychological and physical benefits. It reduces stress hormones, boosts mood, and even strengthens the immune system. For families, the benefits go even deeper. When you laugh together, you create shared moments of joy and connection, reinforcing a sense of unity and trust. It’s a reminder that, no matter how chaotic life may get, you have a team in each other.
Think about the last time your family had a shared laugh. Maybe it was over a funny story at the dinner table or an unexpected slip-up during game night. Those moments stick with us because they make us feel safe, loved, and understood. For children, laughter is especially powerful—it teaches them resilience, helps them navigate stress, and builds a foundation of positive relationships that can last a lifetime.
In therapy, I often encourage others to prioritize laughter. It doesn’t have to be elaborate; a silly joke, a funny movie, or a playful family tradition can do the trick. The goal is to create an environment where joy is a regular visitor, not a rare guest.
So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed or disconnected, remember that laughter can be a quick and powerful way to bring everyone closer together. It’s a natural stress reliever, a bond-builder, and, perhaps best of all, a way to create cherished memories. In the words of Victor Borge, “Laughter is the shortest distance between two people.” He was a funny guy!
xoxo,
Dr. Marnee