The tasks and responsibilities we have at work are usually the causes for physical and mental exhaustion. Sometimes we get too preoccupied with work that we tend to miss our meals, sleep less and forget to laugh.
Injecting humor into the workplace not only fills the workplace with more positive vibes, but most importantly, it helps patients cope with what they are going through.
Studies show that laughter can actually lower blood pressure. It also boosts lung and heart performance. Many patients are stressed out with their situation. By smiling or being able to laugh once in a while, they lessen their stress levels and even exercise their facial muscles.
Endorphins, known as the happy hormone, are released when people exercise, perform rigorous activities and laugh. Yes, laughing releases endorphins. When one has a high level of endorphins, he or she feels more positive and essentially happier. Enjoying a good hearty laugh makes you feel lighter. It makes you feel as if you have just unloaded a heavy weight from your shoulders.
Perhaps the people who need laughter the most are the patients and their families. Nurses and even nursing students taking up BSN or ASN basics, should know that the nursing profession not only assists patients physically but most of all, emotionally. No matter how hopeless a patient’s case is, it is still important to at least inject some form of lighthearted moments in their lives. There is no single formula for best way to make people laugh. Some things may not be funny to other people. This is when nurses should apply what they have learned in their psychology subject in school.
Try to ask yourself when was the last time you had a hearty laugh. What makes you laugh? Are there movies or TV shows that you enjoy? Do you have friends who are funny? Was there an unforgettable memory that still makes you laugh?
But why is it seemingly hard for people to put some fun or humor into their conversations and interactions? Perhaps the key to finding reasons to laugh and smile is the ability to know how to interact with people. Nurses should learn how to verbally communicate with coworkers and patients and connect with them. This can be done by cracking jokes, sharing personal experiences or simply by learning to listen to people’s stories. These are some of the elements that can help bridge people.