A ll of a sudden the feeling arises in your gut. It squishes  through your stomach, slides right past the heart, tingles your throat as it passes and then…it bursts. Your lips open,  jaw widens and you let out one giant giggle.

What’s the big deal? It’s just a laugh, right? But to me, a laugh is so much more than just a sound.

For starters, I am the number one fan of self-expression. Those simple vibrations of sound that bounce from wall to wall, commonly known as laughter, are the best way to  just let go. Close your eyes, throw your head back, laugh, and you’ll see. Whether it’s the kind of laugh that lasts for twenty minutes, continuing to replay in your head, or just a little giggle, you’re expressing yourself.  Even though it might be slightly awkward to be the only one laughing in a room of silent people and people may stare, I realize I’m the one who’s not afraid to be myself.

Secondly, it’s individuality. Just listen. Not one person has the same laugh. Some are high, some low, some squeak, some rumble, some are fast, some are slow. Laughter is what makes a person unique. Everyone does it, but that sound that flows from the lips sounds even sweeter each time, because each time it’s new.   It’s what makes the chuckle of a baby so magical, the giggle of a child so heartwarming, and the laughter of the world  so intriguing. Don’t be afraid to let it out. It’s what makes you, you.

Lastly, where in the world did it come from? You can laugh in the face of evil, or over embarrassment or humor. You can laugh at awkward moments, at memories, or just because. Whenever or wherever you are, just letting it out can set you free. I don’t know where laughter came from, but just pushing that hot air out can change so much. The sound of it from someone else can make your day turn for the better, especially during the holiday season. It’s that time of year where the slightest bit of cheer can make you a little happier.  I even find when I’m stressed, laughing takes that extra weight away. Laughter  has the power to change the mood in a room. They even say laughing every day adds years to your life.

If you know me, you know I laugh a lot. Some may think too much or too loud, but as far as I’m concerned I’ll never hold back that gut feeling. Go ahead and be annoyed, but I’m going to throw my head back and laugh. It’s a gift I appreciate everyday.