The Happening

DO ANIMALS LAUGH?

Evidently, humans aren’t the only animals with a sense of humor. According to mentalfloss.com, primates, dogs and rats can all express their happiness through laughter, especially if they are tickled by a human hand. In doing so, each makes a slightly different sound than the human laugh – apes and dogs laugh in the form of panting, grunts and purrs, while rats make chirps in the ultrasonic range beyond the range of human hearing. The most ticklish rats are also the most playful!

LEARN TO BE FUNNY

Did you know that there is actually a place in Tulsa where you can take classes to be funny? Located in the heart of the Blue Dome District in downtown Tulsa, The Comedy Parlor Theater and Training Center offers classes in improvisation and stand-up comedy. Every Sunday night, they host an open mic night that showcases their students of comedy.

HUMOR MONTH

Founded in 1976 by author and humorist Larry Wilde, the original idea was to raise public awareness of the healthy benefits of happiness and laughter. According to many health care professionals, laughter can actually improve our health. Not only is laughing a lot of fun and good for you, it can be very contagious. So make it a point to have a positive effect not only on your own health, but on the health of those around you. Look for the humor in your daily life and spread it around. There is an endless supply out there, you can have as much of it as you like and it often doesn’t cost a thing! Read the story on page 44.

HAPPY FOOD

In addition to food tasting good, recent studies have shown that certain foods may affect brain chemistry associated with depression and anxiety. According to prevention.com, consuming the following 10 foods may actually lift your spirits!

Clams
Packed with vitamin B12. Low levels of B12 can lead to depression.

Walnuts & Flax
Loaded with alpha-linolenic acid, also a depression buster.

Coffee
Caffeine induces a happy brain-boost of dopamine and serotonin.

Radishes
The spicy crunch may stimulate the release of dopamine and norepinephrine.

Oysters
A rich source of zinc. Low zinc levels are linked to depression and anxiety.

Pomegranate
The juice of this fruit lowers blood pressure and can reduce anxiety and depression.

Yogurt
Enhances your populations of probiotic bacteria and good bacteria can spread a “chill-out” message to your brain.

Shiitake mushrooms
These mushrooms, complete with selenium and magnesium, have an uplifting effect on your mood.

Dark chocolate
Loaded with chemicals, such as polyphenols, that might boost your mood.

Apricots
Packed with vitamin B6, beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin, which are linked to a happier mood.

FUNNY TOWNS

Here are a few funny town names in the state. Smile – we know you want to!

• Loco
• Bushyhead
• Bug Tussle
• Hooker
• Slapout
• Bowlegs
• Cookietown
• Frogville
• IXL
• Moon
• Rubottom
• Slaughterville
• Slick
• Pumpkin Center
• Pink
• Stringtown