The Truth About Laughter Still Being the Best Medicine

Laughter has long been known to lift the spirits. When was the last time you experienced a really deep, sustained belly laugh where your abdominal muscles ache? Maybe it was a comedy show – or a funny film at the cinema? Or maybe you can’t remember…

But what if we could learn to laugh unconditionally – for no other reason than to make us feel good and to boost our health and our happiness? Would you do it?

Laughter’s benefits

Recent scientific research shows that belly laughter have the following benefits (ref. Dr Michael Miller, Centre of Cardiovascular Health, University of Maryland).

Reduces the level of stress hormones
Releasing endorphins (our “happy chemicals” and natures pain killers)
Lower’s blood pressure
Strengthens our heart (reducing the risk of cardio-vascular disease and stroke)
Boosts T-cells (immune system cells)
Boosts our lung capacity and breathing
A deep, hearty belly laughter also burns calories and helps tone muscles!
Laughter can increase your overall sense of well-being.

Laughter has a way of instantly connecting people and is one of the most basic and fundamental ways in which we communicate as human beings. It increases people’s confidence, self-esteem, creativity, positivity and resilience, bringing positive changes to all aspects of our lives.

So it not only makes us feel amazing. In addition, it helps our bodies to work more efficiently and to reduce inflammation which can help to improve depression and anxiety.

Suffering from an illnesses like Cancer we are told to enjoy the Comedy genre and stay away from the rest. It really does help a person’s mood and health. Doctors have found that people who have a positive outlook on life tend to fight diseases better than people who tend to be more negative.

So smile, laugh, and live longer!

Nicky

P.S. It’s not a complete surprise that laughter is really still the best medicine.
Related article: What is the Truth about the Power of a Genuine Smile?