Have you ever noticed how children’s laughter makes you feel better? It may have something to do with the freedom and innocence of it. I am not sure we are drawn to it because we realize we have lost it or because it feels like home. We remember the feeling of that freedom or maybe we never experienced it, but longed to, when we were little. When we are born, we are born in to innocence and freedom. As we get older that changes as society teaches us or our parents tell us we need to be different. We learn you cannot be successful if you freely strive for your dreams and are not sitting in a classroom all day, or not sitting behind a desk at a big company. Or maybe our parents are unhappy and that rubs off on to our identity. Laughter is a critical part of life. When is the last time you heard your kids really laugh? Or when is the last time you, yourself, really laughed? That should be part of our daily routine. Have at least one good laugh a day.

If laughter is missing from your life, maybe it is time to reflect on why. What happened to make you stop laughing? What can you do to change that? Are you denying your kids the chance for laughter? Usually laughter comes from being completely drawn in to the current situation or moment. With most of our thoughts stuck in the past or the future, it is hard to be present to experience those laughable moments. When we really feel like we can be who we are truly meant to be, we can reconnect with that freedom and innocence. What a great gift to share with yourself or your children. The best thing about it is that it is completely free. It doesn’t cost us anything, except for maybe a little self-reflection. If this is something that is missing from your life, try to remember what it is that truly makes you feel good inside. What is it that makes you feel good enough to break down the barriers and let your true self shine? Then, share that love and joy with others and make sure you are allowing them to share theirs with you.