10 Truths About Humor And Play 1. It’s not just for kids any more. 2. Humor is a set of survival skills that relieve tension, keeping us fluid and flexible in the face of relentless change (from Metcalfe and Felible, “Lighten Up: Survival Techniques for People Under Pressure.”) 3. It’s physically impossible to play and worry at the same time. 4. Play has health benefits. Your heart beats more slowly and the muscles of your face and abdomen relax. 5. Play helps develop community by breaking down barriers to isolation. 6. Laughter is a great outlet for hostility and anger by relieving stress, anxiety and tension. It’s a great defense for threatening situations, helping create more resilience to everyday life stress. 7. Laughter releases endorphins which produce a sense that all is well with the world. 8. Humor creates perspective; when an unpleasant situation occurs, we may not necessarily find it enjoyable, but looking back we find we have an opportunity to laugh at ourselves as well as provide some great stories to share with others. 9. People often confuse competitive and cooperative play. The former produces aggressive tendencies, while the latter is heart-opening and compassionate. 10. Play increases happiness... fosters learning and creativity, enhances bonds with real children, reactivates the sense of wonder and improves communication with others (from Bruce Williamson, “Playful Activities for Powerful Presentations”).