Laughter protects you physically and psychologically..

In the Bagavad Gita is the quote: " three thigns are true, God, human stupidity and lauighter. The first two are beryond human comprehension so we do what we can with the third".

It is not hard to see how laughter can help to reduce the negative effects of depression. Many great comedians have battled with depression and their work seems to have helped them. It can also help survival by reducing the incidence of severe mental health issues. Personally, the some of the best humour I experienced was in the Army.

3 types of humour can be linked to the levels of the UHM (Universal Hierarchy of Motivation):
- To gain a sense of superiority/power (level three)
- To experience physical pleasure from the release of endorphins (level two)
- To relieve stress in life-threatening or black situations (level one)

A very positive form of humour manifests at level two. Level three (control) humour is characterised by put-down humour and is commonly the motivation behind racist, ethnic, or sexist jokes. But it is also evident in clever humour or repartee.

Level two humour is most obviously to do with enjoyment, and it can be nonsensical. Humour is also quite cultural - a top rated Dutch joke was: "Why do ducks have webbed feet? To stamp out fires. Why do elephants have flat feet. To stamp out burning ducks"

Level one humour helps us to cope with hardship and life-threatening situations. It helps reduce the risk of getting mental health issues - such as PTSD - when in extreme experiences, but of course nothing makes us bullet proof.

A sense of humour not only helps with physical health but is also a good indicator of our mental health (and often helps our creativity).

What is the typical type of humour you use?