When I was 7 or 8 years old, I would occasionally spend the night at my grandparents' two-flat a few miles from my home. The highlight of the stay was walking down their busy street on the way to the local ice cream stand. As my grandma and I made our way down the block, she taught me that it was very important to look everyone in the eye, say "good morning" or "good afternoon," and give them a BIG smile.

I think that I have been smiling ever since. People sometimes tell me that I smile too much, if that's possible. Some people smile easily and for others it takes a little work. A smile can be just a smile, or even better, the beginning of laughter.

Do your patients laugh during your lecture-style presentations? No, I don't mean at you, but as part of the learning experience? Probably not. Do your patients laugh during your Conversation Map sessions? I hope the answer is yes! During your sessions, you are likely to see a wide range of emotions, from laughter to tears.

There are a few small studies demonstrating the benefits of laughter, for reducing rises in postprandial blood sugar and assisting in the healthy functioning of blood vessels. Laughter is also believed to boost the immune system, increase the threshold for pain, and decrease stress.

According to the American Cancer Society, humor therapy (or laugh therapy) is the use of humor for the relief of physical or emotional pain and stress. It can be used as a complementary method to promote health and cope with illness.

Though the studies may be small, there really isn't a downside to laughing more, is there? Other than developing laugh lines (see my photo, above).

I find sessions to be more enjoyable for everyone when there is laughter. Who says you can't have fun while learning? What makes you smile or laugh? These same behaviors may help your patients find humor. Whether you're spending time with your children or grandchildren, watching a comedy show, or going outside and blowing bubbles – you are relieving stress and improving your health. Check out this link to learn more ways to bring laughter into your life –
http://www.helpguide.org/life/humor_laughter_health.htm#top.

Do you try to incorporate humor into your patient sessions? In my experience, when patients demonstrate emotion, they develop a stronger connection.

I will keep on smiling because I can't help it. How about you?

Cathy