My husband laughs very easily…at commercials. When we were dating, I thought it was the funniest thing. He would crack up at the silliest ads on TV. He laughs a lot, but not as often as the average four-year-old. They chuckle 300 times per day! The average 40-year-old laughs just four times a day.
It doesn’t just feel good to laugh. It is good for you! The Mayo Clinic says laughing reduces stress, stimulates organs, and releases neuropeptides, along with chemicals that act as natural painkillers. So, the old saying is true; laughter really is the best medicine. My husband and I enjoy a good laugh together. Since it’s so good for us, how do we start laughing more often? Here are 5 ways to laugh more in marriage.
1. Try new dance moves.
Maybe you are super coordinated and could easily win Dancing With The Stars. But, if dancing is not your strength and you look more like those waving, attention-grabbing inflatables outside used car lots, embrace your clumsy side. Dance like a crazy woman while you’re making dinner. Boogie down in public. Don’t do it alone, either. Invite your husband to show off his moves. Your sides will ache from laughing.
2. Do some practical jokes.
Ever squeezed some lime juice in your husband’s water when he’s not looking? Or shove paper in the toes of his shoes, so he thinks they shrank? Practical jokes are a fun way to add some chuckles to your marriage. Try some out, like placing a fake spider on his wallet or leaving sticky notes all over the inside of his car! These will surely get you both laughing.
Be a good sport in your marriage. Click To Tweet3. Watch funny shows, videos, or movies together.
Admit it. You’ve seen too many re-runs of ER to count. Dramas are gripping, but comedies really can lighten the mood and your marriage. Mix in a sitcom. Watch a Netflix comedy special or funny social media videos with your hubby. Go see a howler at the theater. And while you’re together, let yourself laugh. Don’t hold back. If you find something even mildly humorous, let it out! It’s contagious.
4. Laugh at yourself.
Wear something ridiculous for your husband. Do a wild hairdo. Fail at playing Twister. It’s okay to look silly sometimes. Be a good sport in your marriage. If you make a word stumble or a physical stumble, be willing to make light of it. Let your husband laugh at you without getting defensive.
5. Laugh at him.
Most men love to make their wives laugh. So even if he’s being corny, or you’ve heard that joke before… laugh! Another way to laugh more at your husband is to make sure you’re not harboring any resentment or bitterness toward him. If you feel like rolling your eyes at him, or you’re secretly thinking how annoying he is when he tries to make you laugh, you probably need a bitterectomy before you can return to full humor health.
Tell us! What have you done this week to make your husband laugh?
