About this episode
Do you know what magical action has the power to boost your mood, bolster your immune system, banish stress, lessen pain, and foster connection? If you guessed "laughter," you're on target. Research consistently shows that laughter truly is one of life's best medicines, yet our stress-filled lives tend to leave little space for self-care and the healing power that laughing brings. And especially if you tend toward perfectionism or depression, getting a good dose of laughter might be the furthest thing from your mind and even non-existent on your to-do list. But there are simple steps each one of us can take to foster more laughter--and reduce stress--each day. Join me and stress expert Professor Pete Alexander for a mindful exploration into the uplifting power of laughter. Topics discussed include mental health, physical health, perfectionism, stress, parenting, attachment, insecure attachment, secure attachment, diabetes, heart health, hospitalization, inflammation, cortisol, endorphins, neurochemicals, laughter yoga, yoga, EMDR, MER therapy, toxic perfectionism, stress relief, stress relief activities, work, burnout, mindset, play, joy, immune system, self-care, fulfillment, happiness, and balance. Please note that this episode may contain sensitive material; listener discretion is advised. Emergency Assistance Note: If you or someone you know needs immediate support, please call your emergency services. In the US, 24/7 help is available by calling "911" or "988" (Suicide and Crisis Hotline). Support/informational links are in the show notes. Books by Dr. Carla Manly: Joy From Fear: Create the Life of Your Dreams by Making Fear Your Friend Date Smart: Transform Your Relationships and Love Fearlessly Aging Joyfully: A Woman's Guide to Optimal Health, Relationships, and Fulfillment for Her 50s and Beyond The Joy of Imperfect Love: The Art of Creating Healthy, Securely Attached Relationships Oracle decks by Dr. Carla Manly: Etsy Amazon Connect with Dr. Carla Manly: Website: https://www.drcarlamanly.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcarlamanly/ Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/drcarlamanly/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drcarlamanly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-marie-manly-8682362b/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.carlamariemanly8543 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr_carla_manly Books by Professor Pete Alexander: Lighten Your Day: Fast, Easy and Effective Stress Relief for When Sh*t Happens - Internet Marketing Tips for Busy Executives: Simple Ways to Improve Your Internet Presence Connect with Professor Pete Alexander: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stressexpert/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petealexander/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHHO6IiWyn56aURq585fxVA Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://drcarlamanly.com/