Several scientific studies have shown that a sense of humor can not only improve a person’s mental health but also their physical health. That’s because humor relieves stress, and many scientists believe that laughing is a way for the human brain to release pent-up emotional energy.

It’s for this reason that National Humor Month might be the most important month of the year. Observed during April, this month encourages everyone to inject some humor into their lives and the lives of their friends and family members. Humor has a lot of therapeutic uses, so let’s all get together and share a few laughs with one another as we celebrate this month.

The History of National Humor Month

Even though not many people may have heard of National Humor Month, it has actually been around for quite some time. It was first created in 1976 by Larry Wilde, the Director of the Carmel Institute of Humor.

He was also a comedian and author on the subject of humor. He created this month in April because it starts with April Fool’s Day — a day that’s well-known for its use of pranks and humor.

Facts About Humor, Laughter & Jokes

People don’t think about humor all that much. Either they find something funny, or they don’t. They just don’t think about why it does or doesn’t make them laugh. That’s why we’ve decided to list some facts about humor that our readers might not know.

• Laughter is an instinctive behavior that’s recognized by people from all different cultures.
• More laughter is produced during normal conversations than through the telling of jokes.
• In large groups of people, women tend to laugh more than men do.
• Most people only laugh during natural pauses in conversations.
• People are approximately 30 times more likely to laugh in a social situation than when they are sitting alone.
• It’s estimated that an adult laughs anywhere from 15 to 20 times a day.
• It’s believed that laughter began even before the evolution of language.

Observing National Humor Month

National Humor Month is probably one of the easiest months of the year to celebrate. There are no obligations other than taking the time to enjoy yourself. This month can be observed by telling a joke, watching a comedy with friends or family members, or heading out to watch a comedy show.

If there’s one obligation that a person has during this month, it’s the obligation to spread the word about it online using the hashtag #NationalHumorMonth. That allows everyone to join in on the fun.