On the lighter side

By Daneen James 

“Live by grace, not perfection”, the words of the sign posted on the back wall of my office. I have a tendency toward overthinking and perfectionism. The sign reminds me not to take myself too seriously and to extend myself grace.  Whenever I obsess over something being less than "perfect" or I'm paralyzed by the fear of making a mistake. I look at the sign and literally breathe a sigh of relief.

The Good News
Though it's taken me some time to understand. No matter how hard we try, our talent and effort aren't enough. They were never intended to be. Our role is contribution. We can choose how to focus our energy, effort and attention. But God controls the outcome, He's responsible for the results. When we try to operate in God’s territory, we get frustrated, feel stressed and become overwhelmed. Anytime I feel myself drifting into God’s realm, I laugh. It helps me release and reset. In fact, I’ve found humor to be a wonderful tool for maintaining balance in my life.  

When did you last laugh?
Do you remember the last time you laughed? I don’t mean a giggle or a smile. But the kind of laughter that erupts from a place deep within. Forces you on to your side. Tears come down your face. Your stomach muscles hurt and your cheeks ache, but afterwards you feel lighter, like a weight has been lifted. Everything seems just a little better, a little brighter. Do you remember, was it recent?

The research is clear, laughter offers a host of mental and physical benefits (https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/laughter-is-the-best-medicine.htm):

• Fosters efficiency and innovation. Laughter reduces stress. Less stress equals more energy. We can focus longer, get more done in less time and are likely to respond to challenges with more creativity and effectiveness.  
• Stimulates perspective. Humor disarms our defenses. Helps creates psychological distance. So, we don't feel threatened and difficult situations are less likely to escalate or overwhelm us.  
• Promotes heart health. Laughter improves the function of blood vessels and increases blood flow, which can help protect you against a heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.
• Burns calories. One study found that laughing for 10 to 15 minutes a day can burn approximately 40 calories—which could be enough to lose three or four pounds over the course of a year. Not quite the same as a trip to the gym, but definitely could be more fun.
• Extends your life. A study in Norway found that people with a strong sense of humor outlived those who don’t laugh as much. The difference was particularly notable for those battling cancer.

 
Here's a little encouragement...

1. Before you react, try to see the humor a situation. Not saying to make everything a joke. But generally speaking, most things just aren’t that serious.
2. Watch funny videos on YouTube. Have a favorite comedian? Look for comedy specials on cable.
3. Do something silly and playful. Just because you’ve grown up, doesn’t mean you have outgrown fun. Try a water gun or pillow fight, wrestle, frisbee, jump rope, dance (who cares what it looks like.) 

Explore and experiment.  Do something every day that lightens your mood, then repeat. 
 

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Daneen James is an inspirational author, speaker and develops uplifting
products and media through her company, SPARKSAFLAME.
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