Sample idea for #7: Rejuvenate Through Pleasure, Play, and Laughter

Laugh daily

“One should take good care not to grow too wise for so great a pleasure of life as laughter.”
— Joseph Addison, poet

Build laughter and fun into your awareness, lifestyle, and daily routine. Here are a few simple ways:

• Smile or laugh at least 5 minutes a day.
  Begin by smiling more. Then think about something you're struggling with and respond with a “tee-hee.” Slowly progress into a “ha-ha” from the throat, and finally to a full “ho-ho” from the belly. Notice how this exercise in laughter affects your mood, attitude, and outlook.
  
  
• Learn to laugh at yourself and your life situation more often.
  Find laughter particularly in the situations that “aren't funny.” Though this may be difficult, it can greatly decrease your level of stress.
• Tell jokes and funny stories.
  Sharing funny stories can spread laughter to those around you. It can encourage others to share their funny stories as well.
  
  
• Give yourself permission to play.
  Let go of being an adult all the time and give yourself permission to play more often. Spending time with children can help.
  
  
• Bring laughter into your intimate relationship.
  Increase your level of pleasure by bringing laughter into your intimate relationship and your lovemaking.
  
  
• Laugh out loud for no reason at all.
  You don't need a reason to laugh. Laugh out loud every now and then for no reason at all, like right now!