“Cheerfulness keeps up a mind, and fills it with a steady and perpetual serenity.”
Joseph Addison
Recovery from eating distress/eating disorders is a courageous journey, one filled with emotional challenges, personal reflection, and gradual growth. Along the way, it’s easy to get caught in a cycle of seriousness, constantly analysing our flaws and striving for perfection. But what if part of the healing process involved something much simpler, and much lighter?
What if recovery could also include more laughter and lightness?
Negativity is like a dark cloud that settles over our minds. It dims our perspective, blocks joy, and casts a shadow over our sense of humour. When we’re constantly worried about how we look, what we eat, or whether we’re “good enough,” we drain ourselves of energy. This energy that could be used to enjoy life, connect with others, and yes, even laugh more.
In this state, joy often feels out of reach. And yet, think about the people you enjoy being around most. Aren’t they usually the ones who bring lightness, who smile easily, and who can find something funny even in a frustrating situation?
In our recovery we learn to make room for joy. Humour and cheerfulness are powerful healing tools. Laughter has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and even strengthen the immune system. It connects us with others and reminds us that life, even with all its imperfections, can still be joyful.
So today, make a conscious choice: Lighten up.
Revisit moments from your past that once felt difficult, can you see them in a new light?
Choose to laugh at the awkward, imperfect, or even downright ridiculous moments of life.
Let humour become part of your daily routine, not as a way to avoid serious emotions, but to balance them. Our sense of humour is a strength we need to use more often. We undervalue our sense of humour, thinking it’s not “serious enough” for recovery work. But in truth, it’s one of your greatest allies. It reminds you that you are more than your struggles. It brings perspective. It creates space for self-compassion.
Start small: watch a comedy, share a funny story, call that friend who always makes you giggle. Notice how your body responds, how the tension eases, how your heart softens.
Let today be your Lighten Up Day.
Affirmation: I welcome joy and choose to see life through a lighter lens.
