Presented by:

Join us for a symposium bringing together health care professionals, caregivers and anyone affected by chronic diseases like cancer in a morning of learning and conversation. Together, we’ll explore the beneficial impact laughter can have on physical, emotional and mental health and its integration in care.

SCHEDULE:

8 a.m. —In-Person Registration Opens

8:30 a.m. —In-Person Coffee Time

8:50 a.m. —Welcome and Introduction (Virtual Program Begins)

9 a.m. — Jayson L. Dibble: “Think you understand emotions and laughter? Think again.”

Jayson Dibble, Phd.

Jayson L. Dibble, Ph.D., Department of Communications Chair, Hope College
Many of us are taught ideas such as emotions are hardwired into certain parts of the brain, that there are certain universal emotions which are shared across cultures, and that laughter means things are funny. But what if all this time we’ve been misunderstanding these ideas? For care providers who routinely deal with their own and others’ emotions, it’s important to get the fuller picture. This one-hour course busts lots of myths and discusses the latest research on how human emotion processing happens and the real role of laughter in our dealings with others. If we really want to value the links between emotions, humor, and wellbeing, then care providers need to consider some “new” truths.

10 a.m. — Break 10 mins.

10:10 a.m. — Cynthia Shelby-Lane: “Laughter for the Health of It: The Serious Behind the Funny” Part One

Cynthia Shelby-Lane

Cynthia Shelby-Lane, M.D., physician, author and comedienne

Join Dr. Cynthia Shelby-Lane MD, physician, author, and comedienne as she intertwines stories and science to educate the audience about the phenomenon of laughter- what it is and why we do it and find out if all laughter is “good laughter”. We will explore the physical and mental benefits of laughter while experiencing them firsthand during this presentation. Dr. Shelby-Lane will infuse you with data, information, and strategies for putting laughter in your life.

11 a.m. — Break 10 mins.

11:10 a.m. — Cynthia Shelby-Lane: “Laughter for the Health of It: The Serious Behind the Funny” Part Two

Learn about and practice Laughter Wellness. Dr. Shelby-Lane will lead us through a series of entertaining and engaging activities.
that promote humor and health.

12 p.m. — Conclusion & Questions

 

Earn 3 Continuing Education Credits in nursing or social work!

Please note: registration ends on Thursday, March 9 at 12 p.m. 

 

Underwritten by:

Michigan Council for Arts & Cultural Affairs Council