Discover the Health Benefits of Laughter – It’s Cheaper Than Therapy
Laughter has been referred to as the “best medicine” for centuries, and for a good reason.
Not only does it feel good, but it also has a wide range of health benefits that can improve physical and mental health–from reducing stress and boosting the immune system to improving cardiovascular health and cognitive function, it’s a powerful tool for promoting overall well-being.
Let’s explore some of the ways that laughter truly is the best medicine.
- Laughter reduces stress: Laughter is a natural stress reliever. When you laugh, it releases endorphins, which are natural mood-boosting chemicals that help to reduce the level of stress hormones in the body.
- Boosts the immune system: Laughing can help strengthen the immune system by increasing the production of antibodies and activating immune cells, which can help fight illnesses.
- Enhances social connections: It’s a social activity that can help build relationships. It can improve communication, build trust, and enhance social bonding.
- Improves mental health: Laughing can help to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. It can also improve mood and increase feelings of happiness and well-being.
- Reduces pain: Having a “funny” can help to reduce pain by releasing endorphins, which act as natural painkillers. It can also help to reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation.
- Improves cardiovascular health: Laughing can improve cardiovascular health by increasing blood flow, reducing inflammation, and improving the function of blood vessels.
- Improves cognitive function: Laughing can enhance cognitive function by increasing blood flow to the brain and promoting the growth of new brain cells. It can also improve memory and creativity.
- Encourages positive thinking: Laughter can help to shift negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. It can help reduce negative emotions and promote a more positive outlook.
Did you know?
Laughter can help you burn calories? According to a study by Vanderbilt University Medical Center, laughing for 10 to 15 minutes per day can burn up to 40 calories. While this may seem a little, it can add up over time and be a great addition to any weight loss or fitness regimen.
So, the next time you’re looking for a fun way to burn extra calories, try laughing it up!
A little history:
Laughter has been an integral part of human society for thousands of years. In ancient times, it was often associated with religious rituals and was believed to have healing powers.
The Greek philosopher Aristotle was among the first to study the phenomenon of laughter, and he thought it was a natural response to things that are “ridiculous and ugly.”
During the Middle Ages, laughter became more associated with comedy and entertainment. The first recorded instance of laughter being used as entertainment was during the ancient Roman festival of Saturnalia, a time of feasting, merriment, and role reversal.
In the 1500s, laughing became more widely recognized as a medical treatment. The Swiss physician Paracelsus believed that laughter could cure many diseases and illnesses.
This belief was further supported by the French physician Henri de Mondeville, who claimed that it could be used to treat conditions such as melancholy, epilepsy, and even the plague.
In the 1900s, the study of laughing became more scientific. The French physiologist Henri Gaultier de Claubry was among the first to study the physical effects of it and he found that it caused changes in breathing and heart rate.
In the 1960s, the American psychologist William Fry discovered that laughter could also stimulate the release of endorphins, natural painkillers.
These days, it’s recognized as an essential aspect of mental and physical health. It is often used as a form of therapy. Many hospitals and clinics now offer laughter yoga and other laughter-based treatments to help patients reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
