Look Who it Was Random video

A healthy dose of laughter | Bernie Warren | TEDxQUT

3,026 views · Published 8 September 2014 · 18:41 · Indexed 20 September 2026

Channel: TEDx Talks · 2014 · Nonprofits & Activism

Watch on YouTube

This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. A smile has the power to spark change in hospitals and healthcare. Join clown doctor Bernie Warren as he examines why laughter can be the best medicine. 

Bernie Warren, Ph.D, is Professor of Drama in Education and Community in The School of Dramatic Art at the University of Windsor a post he has held since 1992. Since 1975 he has worked in clinical, educational and community settings worldwide and has held various University positions in both Drama/Theatre and Psychology for nearly 35 years.

Dr. Warren has studied Eastern healing and Martial Arts for 40+ years. Since 1986 he has taught Qigong and Tai Chi to people with life threatening & life changing conditions and to people simply wishing to remain healthy! Currently he is working with Dr. Cheri McGowan investigating the benefits of seated Qigong for seniors with dementia and mobility problems.

He is an internationally respected researcher and teacher on the role of the arts in healthcare and education and the author of numerous books and articles including, Using the Creative Arts in Therapy and Healthcare and, with Dr Peter Spitzer, ‘Smiles Are Everywhere: Integrating Clown-Play into Healthcare Practice’.

In addition to his University position Bernie is also the Founder of FOOLS FOR HEALTH award winning Clown-Doctor and Elder-Clown programs and for 10 years worked in hospitals and healthcare facilities as Dr. Haven’t-a-Clue.


About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

More from this channel