Seeing an attractive woman with a below-average guy inevitably draws all sorts of conclusions (often unfair ones), such as: he’s probably rich, she might be insecure, he must be good in bed or especially well-endowed below the waist… However, the truth might be much simpler than that – maybe he’s funny.
Science increasingly shows that the old trope “he makes me laugh” really works as a valid strategy for finding sexual partners. And, to make matters even more interesting, it reflects differences between sexes in a way that women actively choose funny men, while men not only seek female partners with a good sense of humor, but also those receptive to their own jokes.
However, it does not work both ways and men are much less interested in funny women. So, are we just shallow or is there more to it?
The Magnetism of Humor
Evolutionary speaking, choosing a sexual partner is a bit of a crazy process in which we often have to make a relatively quick decision about something that might have a long-term impact not only on our life, but on passing on our genes.
So, what’s so magnetic about funny guys? For one thing, humor points to a sociable and agreeable personality. It also alleviates the tension of the courtship ritual that predates mating, and much healthier than alcohol which we tend to use for the same purpose.
Humor is simply magnetic – it helps us imagine a lifetime filled with cheerful moments. Life can often be really grim and we naturally want to spend it next to people that can brighten up those moments.
Laughter Heals
Laughter also has a number of benefits for both the mind and the body, including:
- Reducing stress and anxiety by helping to relieve tension and lowering stress hormones.
- Boosting the immune system by increasing the production of immune cells and antibodies.
- Improving cardiovascular health by stimulating blood flow and generally reducing the risk of heart disease (which also directly boosts your performance in bed).
- Lifting mood and relieving pain by stimulating the production of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and releasing feel-good chemicals in the brain, such as dopamine and serotonin.
Facilitating Intimacy
Last but not least, humor can serve as a cement that helps us build better relationships with our romantic and sexual partners. It creates a sense of bonding and sharing while also improving communication and maintaining empathic connections.
Humor can be an easy tool to facilitate many subjects that are hard, yet necessary, for a relationship to work out, including things like differences in libido, erectile dysfunctions, problems with body image, etc. (but do note that we’re talking about actual humor not passive aggressive remarks masquerading as jokes).
And finally, when applied in the right dose, it can really boost intimacy by creating a light and enjoyable atmosphere that’s a perfect setting for great sex. Kinky sex is okay, but I’d trade it any day of the week (maybe not any, but most) for some goofy sex. It entails massive laughing intermezzos, then you come, and then you laugh some more.