We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Katy Maag a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Katy thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?

A defining moment in my nursing career was a few years ago when I realized the immense stress that patients were enduring during their recovery, especially when it came to exercise. It’s no secret that exercise can be a daunting task for most, and it’s even more challenging for those who have experienced heart-related incidents. I vividly recall patients pedaling away on stationary bikes with shoulders hunched up to their ears, tension radiating from every muscle.

That’s when I had an epiphany – why not infuse some laughter and comedy into their therapy sessions? I started sharing jokes and humorous anecdotes, and gradually, something incredible began to happen. Over the course of a few weeks, the atmosphere in the rehab room transformed. Patients, once strangers, were now sharing laughter, forming bonds, and even friendships.

The impact was profound. Laughter wasn’t just a momentary distraction; it was medicine for the body, mind, and soul. Physically, I witnessed their shoulders relax as they pedaled, mental stress dissipating with each chuckle, and socially, they were no longer patients but a supportive community. Their self-confidence soared as they realized that recovery could be accompanied by smiles and camaraderie.

It was in that moment that I truly understood the healing power of humor. It wasn’t just about getting through therapy; it was about making the journey enjoyable and fostering resilience. I continue to use humor as a tool for recovery, and I’m inspired every day by the laughter and progress it brings. It’s a reminder that even in the face of adversity, a little laughter can go a long way in healing hearts and spirits.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hello, I’m Katy Maag, a Cardiac Rehab Nurse, Stress Management and Happiness Coach, Brain Health Coach, and a certified Laughter Yoga teacher. My passion lies in helping others infuse more joy and levity into their lives. I firmly believe in the power of humor and its ability to enrich every facet of our existence.

In addition to my current roles, I am on a journey to become an Associate Applied Humor Therapist, which will further enhance my ability to assist individuals in their pursuit of well-being.

I am a staunch advocate for health and wellness, not only for my patients but also for individuals and staff in various professional settings. I firmly believe that since we spend a significant portion of our waking hours at work, it’s crucial to create a pleasant and stress-free work environment. After all, the quality of our workplace experience directly impacts every aspect of our lives.

My approach involves providing both individual and group education, as well as delivering keynote speeches. I find motivation in witnessing people transform their lives and begin to relish every moment.

One of my standout offerings is a comprehensive six-week program called “Humor-U.” This program explores the six key areas where laughter and humor can make a substantial difference, whether for individuals or corporations. I’m often referred to as the “laughing nurse,” and this title has proven to be an effective way to help my clients relax, reduce stress, and facilitate learning.

I am here to inspire positive change and well-being, one chuckle at a time. If you’re ready to embark on a journey to better health, enhanced happiness, and improved workplace dynamics, please don’t hesitate to connect with me. Together, we can bring more joy, laughter, and vitality into your life.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

Humor in the workplace can be a potent force for companies, fostering a positive and vibrant atmosphere where employees feel motivated and engaged. When humor is embraced, it serves as a glue that bonds teams together, enhancing communication and collaboration. It eases tension during challenging times, allowing employees to navigate stress more effectively and maintain their resilience. Humor also boosts creativity and innovation, encouraging employees to think outside the box and find innovative solutions to problems. Ultimately, a workplace infused with humor becomes a place where employees not only work but thrive, leading to increased productivity, job satisfaction, and long-term success for the company.

If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?

Absolutely, I wouldn’t change a thing about my profession or specialty. As a nurse, I’ve had the privilege of caring for people in their most vulnerable moments, and it’s a role I cherish deeply. What makes it even more fulfilling is my ability to use humor as a powerful tool in helping others feel better. Laughter truly is the best medicine, and I’ve witnessed its remarkable healing effects firsthand. Whether it’s sharing a light-hearted joke to ease anxiety or using humor to create a positive and uplifting environment, I’ve seen how it can brighten the darkest days and bring smiles to faces. It’s a gift to be able to combine my passion for wellness and well-being with the magic of laughter, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.

Contact Info:

• Website: KMWellnessConsulting.com
• Facebook: K M Wellness Consulting
• Linkedin: Katy Maag

Image Credits
Trisha Ann Photography