For years it has been said that “laughter is the best medicine” and for many of us, this statement has held true within our own experiences.
More than just a baseless statement, however, research has proven that taking a moment to have a few laughs a day can in fact help to keep the doctor away.
Still, need more reasons to laugh? Well, below are six findings that laughter provides a number of benefits for the mind and body.
Benefits of Laughter to your health
- Laughter relaxes the body. Following a good hearty laugh individuals may recognise that the body feels relieved of pent up physical tension and stress, leaving our muscles relaxed for as many as 45 minutes.
2. Laughter aids in boosting the immune system. A noteworthy medicinal power of laughter is its ability to decrease stress hormones and, in its wake, increase immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, thus improving the body’s resistance to disease.
3. Laughter triggers the release of endorphins. Laughter can also encourage an overall sense of wellbeing by triggering the release of the body’s natural feel-good chemicals, known as endorphins.
4. Laughter encourages heart health. Laughter has the capability to improve the functioning of blood vessels while simultaneously increasing blood flow. This helps to protect the body against a heart attack or the development of other cardiovascular problems.
5. Laughter burns calories. By no means is laughter a replacement for regular exercise, however one study has found that laughing for 10 to 15 minutes a day can on average burn approximately 40 calories.
6. Laughter promotes long life. As crazy as it may seem, one study based in Norway found that people with a strong sense of humour often outlived those who don’t laugh as much.
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