What is Laughter? 

Laughter is the ability to create sound as a reaction to a stimuli evoked by internal or external events, situations, or persons.   It is this physical manifestation that is signaled by a state of being; a state of thought; or as an emotional response. Laughter is the body’s release valve, allowing for the pressure within the body, both good and bad, to manifest through a physical expression and a vocal inflection.  Laughter is an exhilarating experience that can be fueled by having a basic sense of purpose.

There are varying types of laughter from a chuckle, chortle, giggle, titter, twitter, roar, bellow, cackle, tee-hee, snicker, and a laugh.  Laughter is the ability to express one’s internal emotions with an external expression.    

Laughter is the purest form of communication.  It expresses our real desires and intent.   Through laughter we are capable of being real, genuine, and authentically ourselves.  Dr. Robert Provine of University of Maryland, suggests that laughter is perhaps the earliest form of language known unto humankind.  Dr. Provine has suggested that laughter predated the spoken language.  Laughter’s ignition begins at the earliest stages of life. 

Dr. Johannson fondly recalls her strongest memories of laughter being associated with her father.  “The first vision that comes to my mind on the topic of laughter is of my dear father and seeing him laughing so many times… it was wonderful to see.. and actually when I think of him, I see him laughing… about even the simplest matters.” 

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