There is something so instinctive, so inexplicably human in laughter. It can seemingly come out of nowhere and take control of our entire body, and while we know it makes us feel good, feel joyful, we barely understand it. But perhaps that’s the magic of joy and laughter. Perhaps it doesn’t need to be analysed to be real.

Still, some have tried. Gelotology is the science of laughter and joy. It studies how they affect physical, mental, and social health, how they can reduce levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, lower blood pressure, and prompt the release of feel-good chemicals. There’s even evidence that joy and laughter can strengthen the immune system, improve cardiovascular health, and act as natural pain relief. The acclaimed anthropologist, Desmond Morris, argues the act of laughing may have evolved from crying, demonstrating a distinctly human ability to turn a negative into a positive.  

Science affirms what we instinctively know: laughter changes us  

Whatever its source, laughter and joy undeniably connect us in a way words cannot. And on this World Laughter Day, we’re reminded that joy is more than a feeling, it’s a powerful force for healing, resilience, and wellbeing. It creates a sense of lightness that lingers long after the moment has passed. And beyond the physiological benefits, joy provides something many of us need right now: a means of coping. While the world feels heavy and the future feels uncertain, we need the sense of levity and release that come with joy and laughter.  

In challenging times, joy can feel elusive, even indulgent. Yet it is often in adversity that laughter becomes more meaningful. Across the world, communities facing uncertainty and hardship continue to find moments of lightness. Children invent games in the most unexpected places. Families share stories that spark smiles, even as they navigate unfathomably difficult circumstances. Humanitarian organisations such as War Child and UNICEF have long recognised the importance of play and psychological support in helping children process trauma. Structured play, creative expression and safe spaces for laughter are recognised as essential tools for emotional recovery and resilience.  

We all know that joy doesn’t erase pain, but it can create some space around it for healing. It reminds us we are more than our circumstances. And when we laugh together, we are strengthening social and familial bonds, restoring a sense of safety and belonging, and ultimately, fortifying the foundations of our communities.  

This is why we are proud to support Super Chill, a Netherlands-based pioneering mindfulness programme for children across Europe, and one of our 10% Profit Pledge partners*. Built on the understanding that playfulness and joy are the foundations for wellbeing, Super Chill offers simple, accessible tools, like their free app, that help children develop emotional awareness and resilience. Through imaginative stories, breathing exercises and mindful play, children learn how to regulate their feelings so they can return to a sense of calm when they need to most.  

The Super Chill team want young people to experience rewarding and fun childhoods, and some separation from the chaos and expectations that often come with social media use, and back-to-back commitments like school, homework, hobbies, and sports. It helps them press pause and take a moment for themselves.  

And while the programme is designed for young minds, its principles are universal: joyful routines, shared laughter, and mindful moments benefit us all. By encouraging parents and caregivers to join in, Super Chill reinforces the idea that wellbeing is something we practice together.  

Because joy multiplies when it’s shared. 

Making room for joy (even when you’re busy)  

As adults we sometimes forget to play. We postpone delight until the to-do list is checked off, the deadlines have been met, and the appointments have been made. Yet joy can thrive in even the smallest moments. It’s a warm bath infused with your favourite bath foam, it’s scenting your home with the comforting notes of your go-to candle, it’s leaving your desk while the sun is still up to walk outside, breathe deeply, and mentally reset (see: From self-care to self-nurture).  

Crucially, it’s time spent with people we hold dear, sharing in their joy and belly-laughing until we snort and have tears running down our cheeks. Far from distractions, these moments are essential to our wellbeing and our own sense of joy.  

On World Laughter Day, we invite you to consider joy as a vital part of your wellbeing, as important as eating well and exercising. Joy is transformative and healing, and something we should all cultivate as much as possible.  

*From 2025 onwards, we commit to spend 10% of our net profit of the previous year (e.g. in 2025, we commit to spend 10% of our net profit of 2024).