Laughter is said to be the “best medicine,” but is laughing truly good for you?
It offers physical and mental health benefits, as physical and mental health affect each other.
An emerging body of research shows that laughter can improve your overall health, well-being, and life satisfaction.
Johner Images / Getty Images
Johner Images / Getty Images
1.
Improves Overall Well-Being
Laughteris beneficial for general wellness.
It can boost many areas of life.
Laughing can also shift youremotionsand thoughts.
Boosts Mental Health
People who find humor throughout daily life are more likely to experience joy.
Laughter can be a form ofself-care.
If you or someone you know feels this way, contact a trusted healthcare provider for support.
Aids in Personal Development
Laughter can contribute to your personal development.
Reduces Pain
Laughter can decreasepainperception.
One study found that laughter therapy reduced pain scores of people living with terminal cancer by nearly half.
While you feel pain throughout your body, your brain is responsible for processing pain.
Laughter releases chemicals in the brain that counteract pain signals.
Relieves Stress
The body produces cortisol, the stress hormone.
Research shows that laughter therapy improvescortisoland perceived stress levels, meaning that laughter can reduce physical and mental stress.
Reducing stress levels through laughter can decrease the risks of these adverse effects.
Benefits the Immune System
Your emotions andimmune systemare intertwined.
Are There Any Downsides to Laughter?
There is a low risk of harm associated with laughter.
Many people laugh daily through social interactions and other life experiences.
The greater physical, mental, and social risks exist among people who don’t laugh enough.
One study found that people are 30 times more likely to laugh in social options than alone.
Some would say it’s contagious.
If you feel you could benefit from more laughter, attempt to incorporate more of it into your day.
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