Laughing as a Spiritual Practice

A family is sat at the dinner table eating a roast dinner. Everyone is silent as they chew, for longer than anticipated, on the chicken, which is so dry that it absorbs most of the moisture from their mouths.

The cook can silently or publicly judge himself for his lack of skills, fret about what others might be thinking, worry that his reputation as good cook has been compromised, hope that no one says anything... or acknowledge what is so and make a joke.

“Well this chicken is dryer than a popcorn fart”.

Laughing at what is, is one of the quickest and easiest ways to “snap” us out of engaging with critical thoughts. It frees us from attachment to this serious, mind-made concept of ourself that we think needs to be upheld — at the cost of joy, frivolity and connection.

Next time you notice self-consciousness, try acknowledging the is-ness of the scenario, and laughing or making a joke, and see how that feels.