What has joy got to do with it?
Posted on December 07, 2022 by Kate McGlynn, One of Thousands of Life Coaches on Noomii.
Joy appears to be an elusive emotion sometimes. I offer ways to access joy in your life using scientifically, and socially proven techniques.
Joy can feel like a tough emotion to connect with. That’s why I offer joy and play coaching. What has joy got to do with it? When trying to get out of depression, low points, disconnection, or difficulty, joy can still be accessed. Currently, simulated laughter is being studied, along with the benefits of laughter itself as a tool for releasing serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin, and other happy brain chemicals. Neurologists have tentatively found that simulated laughter, like laughter yoga, works as a way to also release these chemicals.
Improvisation has been found to use both halves of the brain, contributing to neuroplasticity, and positive brain chemistry. Some of the science has shown that our inner critic can be reduced, and other results show more creativity, focus, learning ability, and openness.
There are theories out there about improvising your life. These take into account the basic tenants of stage improvisation. “yes, and…” is a lesson for couples, groups, and individuals to take “offers” from life as opportunities for growth.
The following ideas come from an article, "How to be happier- 5 secrets to improvising your life
1. Don’t be afraid to fail
2. Don’t have an agenda
3. Power of positivity
4. Stay true to your want
5. Take action
Tina Fey says: “Life is improvisation.”
“These games create a space for us to play together and connect with our joy; they also develop imagination, confidence, critical thinking, trust, connection and understanding within groups”
― Hannah Fox, Zoomy Zoomy: Improv Games and Exercises for Groups
“We play because we are wired for joy; it is imperative as human beings.”
— John Thorn
Let’s discuss how improvisation and play help to cultivate joy in your life, business, family, and journey!
