Front-Row Friday: Lighten Up – Your Mental Health Depends on It

When was the last time you laughed hysterically?

I mean the kind of laugh where your belly hurts, your cheeks ache, and you’ve got tears streaming down your face. It feels so good, doesn’t it? Well, there’s a scientific reason for that: when you laugh, your body releases a cascade of feel-good chemicals like endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin. These natural stress relievers do wonders for your mental health.

Here’s the best part—it’s nearly impossible to be stressed and laughing at the same time. So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, overworked, or just overstimulated by life, find a reason to laugh. Not just a polite chuckle, but full-on, unfiltered, doubled-over laughter.

Take Your Work Seriously,

But Not Yourself Let me tell you about the time I was giving a speech in Alaska. I welcomed everyone to the program, and boom—the button on my blouse popped off! I had two choices in that moment: freeze up and panic… or laugh. I chose laughter, because come on—how could I not? It was hilarious! The audience laughed with me, and it instantly broke the ice. That moment became one of those stories I keep on hand to remind myself not to take life—or wardrobe malfunctions—too seriously.

Humor as a Life Tool

Laughter isn’t just entertainment—it’s a strategy. Humor can even help with grief. I’ve found that when things feel too heavy, too hard, or too heartbreaking, humor helps lighten the emotional load, even just a little. Here’s something I recommend: create your own humor file. Seriously. Keep a folder (digital or physical) with photos, videos, quotes, or memes that make you laugh out loud. When you’re in a funk, revisit your collection. You’ll be surprised how quickly your mood lifts.

Need inspiration?

Watch your favorite stand-up comedian (I highly recommend Nate Bargatze—his clean humor is hysterical). Rewatch that sitcom episode that always gets you. Revisit those ridiculous videos that made you laugh so hard you had to text a friend. One of My Favorite Funny Visuals

There’s this photo I saw of people in a waiting room—maybe a pharmacy or a bank—and every person is seated, but there’s a single-file line of shoes holding their place. Picture that: a line of shoes on the floor, while their owners chill in chairs nearby. What cracks me up even more is imagining the extrovert who initiated it: “Hey everyone, who’s tired of standing? Let’s all just leave our shoes in line and sit down!” Genius, right?

Your Front-Row Reminder

So, this Front-Row Friday, here’s your challenge:

• Find something that makes you laugh until you cry.

• Share it with someone who needs a good chuckle.

• Add it to your humor file.

Your brain—and your spirit—will thank you. And if you stumble upon something outrageously funny, send it my way. I’m always up for a good laugh. Here’s to less stress, more joy, and a seat in the front-row of your own hilariously imperfect life.

Have a great Front-Row Friday!