Laughter is Medicine for Winter Blues
Orland Park Church to Host Women’s Comedy Event in February and March
If there's anything the Chicago area could use more of during these gray days of winter 2014, it's laughter. "Laughter increases feelings of well-being and counteracts S.A.D. (Seasonal Affective Disorder)," according to Fiona Marshall and Peter Cheevers, co-authors of Positive Options for Seasonal Affective Disorder. Experts at NAMI (National Alliance of Mental Illness) claim women suffer with the Winter Blues at twice the rate as their male counterparts.
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Tracy DeGraaf, local author and stand-up comedienne, is on a mission to encourage women struggling with SAD, and other emotional issues as she brings her one-woman comedy show to life for the 2014 Winter Season. Southbridge Church in Orland Park will host DeGraaf's Life Happens, Laugh Anyway, a 90-minute comedy event for women on Fridays, February 28 and March 28, 2014 at 7 p.m. at 15500 S. 73rd Ave. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
"I take the audience through the seasons of a woman's life from getting married and having children to gaining weight and growing a beard," DeGraaf said. "And then, they meet Jesus," She added. "It's impossible for the human brain to hold a negative thought while laughing, so comedy really helps with emotional issues." DeGraaf said. The show ends with a tug on heartstrings that has left audiences both laughing and crying.
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Seating is limited. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door, and $10 each for groups of 10 or more. Purchase tickets locally at Evilena's Red Dresser and By Grace Boutique, 59 & 67 W. Bankview Dr., Frankfort, IL. Tickets are now available at Evilena's Red Dresser II, Frankfort's newest consignment store for up-cycled women's clothing and furniture at 20887 S. LaGrange Road (next to Starbucks in the Walt's Food Plaza). Ticket's may be purchased online at www.laughanywaymom.com. The show is open to all women ages 18 and up. Advance tickets are recommended. For information call 708-691-5091.
