Laughter

Emerson Poem

I recently discovered this poem when I was doing some de-cluttering on the Labor Day weekend.  It reminds me of what is really important in life and enables me to refocus my priorities. It inspires and grounds me; I hope you find it inspiring too. Success To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent persons and the affection of children; to earn the approbation of honest...

Death By Laughter Poem

I found this poem a few years ago and loved it. I thought you would appreciate it as much as I did.  Enjoy! Death By Laughter Some people measure their lives in pulse rates and sit-ups. Far better to measure yours in licks of ice creams, well- told jokes, mad dashes to be first in water, belly laughs. And, when you die, it won’t be an erratic shift in...

How Work/Life Balance Drives Employee Engagement

I recently attended an HCI webinar “It’s Five O-Clock Somewhere”- Increasing Employee Engagement by Improving Work/Life Balance. Work/life balance is something we all need to maintain; it’s also strongly connected to employee engagement. Employers who do not effectively manage balance fuel burnout and demotivation- the enemies of engagement! Kevin Sheridan, the presenter and Chief Engagement Officer and Chief Consultant of HR Solutions, began the webinar by defining employee engagement. ...

Get In on the Fun with WTS

Watershed Training Solutions has two great  events in June that are designed to enhance your workplace experience while equipping you with the necessary tools to get the job done effectively and efficiently. June 17th CMA Ontario – Essential Leadership Skills This is an interactive and informative workshop that will identify critical emotional intelligence competencies, transforming you into the optimal leader. June 29th – Releasing Stress Through Laughter Yoga Giggle...

Video Weekly Tip: Stress Relief with Wendy Woods

Take a break and watch Wendy Woods, Principal of Watershed Training Solutions, walk you through all the benefits of one of her favourite stress relievers: laughter. For more information about Watershed Training Solutions and stress management tools, strategies and workshops, check out https://www.watershedtraining.ca/

Need a Break from Work? Laugh!

Laughter is the perfect break; it reduces stress, improves immunity, and boosts moods just to name a few benefits.  As Milton Berle said “Laughter is an Instant Vacation” so take a mini holiday even if it is at work. Here are a few quick ways to start laughing: Take a break with your favourite cartoons or funny quotes. Here are a couple of resources to get you started: (cartoons) ...

Top 10 Reasons to Laugh

Top 10 Reasons to Laugh as suggested by Dr. Madin Kataria Laughing is a great activity that just seems to brighten everyone’s day. It helps both mentally and physically and makes you feel great. Here are the top ten reasons to break in a good laugh. 1.   Laughter is a stress buster. 2.   Laughter strengthens the immune system. 3.   Laughter is anti-aging. 4.   Laughter is aerobic exercise 5.  ...

Seven Ways to Reward Employees without Breaking the Bank (Plus a bonus for when you have funds)

The downturn has left many companies short of funds; leaving employee rewards programs in the dust. Yet, ignoring achievements leaves people upset and feeling unappreciated, reducing productivity and employee engagement. Here are seven ways to reward employees for free, plus a bonus for when a little funding trickles through. Enjoy. Surprise them with an early end to the day: Show your appreciation for all their hard work by giving...

The Healing Power of Humor

The Healing Power of Humor is a must read for anyone who has ever faced life’s challenges. Allen Klein shows you how to use humor effectively even in somber moments because laughter helps lighten the load. Allen is no stranger to pain; he gained his inspiration from losing his beloved wife in a three year battle with a rare liver disease . He discusses how it is not always...

Poking Fun at Yourself: A great way to deflect criticism

In my laughter seminars, I talk about the importance of being able to laugh at yourself.  It’s a great way to show humility and take yourself lightly. As we saw at the Olympic closing ceremony, it’s also a great way to deflect criticism and acknowledge your mistakes.  I loved that VANOC made fun of itself for the opening ceremonies torch malfunction.  Having the clown jump out of the floor...

Power of Humor: Making it work at the office

I have spent a lot of time in hospitals lately as my dad deals with severe radiation burns. Despite the challenges, stress and lack of resources within the healthcare system, I’m amazed at hospital staff who use humour to put patients at ease.  Even a few simple words can get a patient to laugh, smile and momentarily forget their troubles. Here are some of my favorite hospital moments: *...