I’m developing a series called “Healthy Clergy Make Healthy Congregations.” (HCMHC). All of it is in preparation for the fall conference of the Presbytery Pastoral Care Network. I will be leading the conference under the theme: Rediscovering the Beloved Community: overcoming isolation. It will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Fort Worth Texas, October 27 – 30. You can find more information at www.pastoralcarenetwork.org
Initially I plan to produce 3 small books as resources in support of clergy overcoming the toxic issue of isolation. One of those books will have the title: God Laughs, Why Don’t You. It will explore the various uses of humor in staying healthy in the ministry.
As part of my research for this book, I came across a Lutheran pastor (ECLA) , Reverend Laura Gentry http://laughinglaura.com, who has explored the physical dimensions of humor in the practice of Laughter Yoga.
On her web page she lists some of the health benefits that laughter can produce. I share them with you for your consideration.
LAUGHTER: THE BEST MEDICINE
Why laugh? Because laughter is good medicine. Studies say that laughter does all of the following things:
• Improves overall sense of well being
• Boosts happiness
• Strengthens and balances the immune system
• Releases endorphins to naturally relieve pain
• Decreases the level of stress hormone
• Lowers blood pressure
• Nurtures creativity
• Reduces risk of heart disease
• Floods the body with a natural “happy hormone”
• Helps manage and overcome depression
• Deepens inner peace
• Breaks social isolation and fosters new friendships
• Develops self-confidence
• Alleviates the discomfort of specific physical challenges
• Cultivates your childlike playfulness for a happier you
Consider what it might mean for your health if you deliberately sought out one reason to engage in some hardy laughter each day. To paraphrase that old saying, is it possible that “A Laugh Each Day Can Keep the Demons Away?” It’s worth considering.
Steve, I know you know there is a necessary distinction between humor and laughter as part of a minister’s self-care, and humor and laughter interjected into a pastoral context and relationship. In the latter humor can be inappropriate and also more for the benefit of the clergy person than for the “others” involved. Inappropriate humor or laughter can, in fact, further isolate the pastor from others. Just some thoughts as you continue your own “prep” work. I look forward to the unfolding of this topic, including your observations on the contexts where God laughs. Blessings on you!