Laugh For The Health Of It

Knock knock.  Who’s there? … If you laugh at the answer, you may improve your health.  Experts say that laughter increases endorphins, strengthens your immune system, and sends extra oxygen through your veins.  Study’s show that a good hardy laugh is as beneficial as a physical workout.

We all feel better after watching a comedy or listening to humor that is positive.

Steve Wilson, Cheerman of the Bored of World Laughter Tour suggests adding laughter to familiar movements, such as waving your arms, activates just about every human physiologic system similar to conventional or traditional exercise.

Laughter can increase hope and self-worth.  By watching 15 minutes of a comedy show worries can be alleviated.  Texas A&M psychiatrist David H. Rosen found that a chuckle can replace negative thoughts with positive ones and help formulate a “plan of attack” for problems.  This in turn increases feelings of self-worth, which makes overcoming obstacles even easier.

Laughter is good for the heart.  It dilates blood vessels so blood flows more freely.  Humor and laughter are good medicine in protecting the heart.

Comedy makes us more inclusive of others and helps us see the big picture.  Happiness and humor reduces narrow-minded perspectives, slashes bias, and brings people together, strengthening our relationships.

Another benefit of laughter that many will welcome in today’s world, is that stress hormones are reduced during laughter, allowing the immune cells to function better.  Oxygen/carbon dioxide exchange occurs during laughter.  Airways are cleared and muscles and joints are flexed and stretched.  I feel better just relating this information. 

When you are feeling down tickle your funny bone by reading some funny anecdotes or one-liners.  Laugh with others to build strong bonds.  Laughter is contagious because of certain responses in the brain.

Indeed laughter is good, if not the best, medicine.   Don’t stifle your laughter; use it!  Here’s to your good health!