Why do we laugh?

Someone makes a silly face, tells a funny joke, or tickles your tummy — and suddenly, ha-ha-ha! You can’t help it. You laugh! But what is laughing, and why do we do it?

Your body says “that’s funny!”

Laughing is the way your body shows that you find something funny or feel happy. When your brain decides something is silly or surprising, it sends a quick message to your body.

Your tummy and chest squeeze, air rushes out, and out comes that wonderful sound — hee-hee, ho-ho! You often can’t stop it, even if you try.

Laughing feels good

When you laugh, your brain makes special happy feelings inside you. A good giggle can help you feel calmer and happier, and it can even chase away a grumpy mood. That is why laughing feels so nice.

Laughing brings us together

Have you noticed that laughing is even better with friends? Laughter is a bit catching — when one person starts, others often join in! It is a friendly way of saying, “I like being with you.”

Sharing a laugh helps people feel close and makes friendships stronger. That is one of the best things laughing does.

Wonder fact: You can’t tickle yourself into laughing! Your brain knows it’s you, so it doesn’t get surprised — and surprise is part of the fun.