Laughter is best at work

Brian Maynor
Posted 1/17/19

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, …

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Laughter is best at work

Posted

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. Laughing relieves stress and boredom, increases engagement and well-being, and 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 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. A good, rollicking laugh can increase our heart rate and blood pressure, resulting in a “good, relaxed feeling,” says The Mayo Clinic.

3. It’s good for productivity. One study found that productivity increased by 10% after employees watched a comedy clip and laughed. It also showed 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. Avoid humor that is lewd or disparaging in any way.

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