“When life gives you lemons, you make your lemonade by laughing away life’s thousand problems.”
Have you ever come across a bunch of people laughing loudly in the park as a part of an exercise? If not, you all must have heard that laughter is the best medicine. We are certain you did. But have you ever stopped to wonder if laughter is genuinely effective in improving your health and wellness?
If yes, this blog post is just for you – whether you are someone who has doubted the authenticity of the claim or you are somebody who believes in the effectiveness but is curious to know the benefits.
Turns out, laughter is indeed the best medicine. It can benefit you in more ways than you can imagine. But that’s not us, it’s what the research says. Laughter can come with a lot of health benefits. We will be discussing the same in this blog post.
So, keep reading to know how you can laugh your way to good health.
Releases endorphins
Have you ever wondered why a minute of laughter makes you feel good for hours? That’s because your body releases endorphins when you laugh. Endorphins are the body’s natural painkillers that come to your rescue when you feel pain.
Reduces stress
Had a lot on your plate lately? From a thousand work obligations to complicated personal relations, life is never short of things that can stress you out.
You may not be able to control what stresses you or when you get stressed, but you can say goodbye to life’s stress by laughing like you’re a ten-year-old all over again. Turns out, laughter can help you cope with stress by releasing those extra endorphins, which we discussed are the body’s natural painkillers.
So, the next time you feel you are stressed, do not stretch your hand for a cigarette or a bottle of whisky, rather laugh for 2 minutes. It’s good practice to start your day with laughter and end it the same way. You will also reduce the likelihood of developing heart disease by reducing your stress.
Improves immunity
A strong immune system means a stronger YOU. A stronger YOU, implies your body’s increased capability to fight diseases.
As it was previously observed, laughter induces the release of stress hormones. While endorphins are one of those hormones, cortisol is another.
This hormone is produced by the two adrenal glands, which are found around the kidney. The pituitary gland in the brain is responsible for regulating cortisol production. Cortisol plays a crucial role in the stress response. Another role of the hormone is activating immune responses, i.e., disease-fighting cells of the body. This ultimately helps strengthen the immune system in the body.
Relaxes muscles
When you are in pain, laugh for a minute. As per research, a hearty laugh can help relieve stress and physical tension, allowing your muscles to relax for the next 45 minutes.
Increases blood flow
We all know why an increased blood flow is beneficial for the whole body. A good healthy blood flow ensures the smooth functioning of the body by providing it with oxygen and nutrients.
As per science, you breathe more deeply every time. This increases the supply of oxygen into your lungs and helps your heart pump more oxygen-rich blood throughout your body. An increased oxygen supply promotes healthier cell growth, allowing your organs to work more efficiently.
It may even help you live longer
Although more research is needed in the area, as per studies, laughter may even increase life expectancy. The claim is supported by the study which observed that individuals with a good sense of humour outlived those who don’t laugh as much as they should. Laughter has proven to be extremely helpful in cancer patients as well.
Closing thoughts
Laughter truly is the best medicine, and its healing powers extend far beyond mere amusement. From reducing stress and enhancing our mental well-being to boosting our immune system and promoting physical health, laughter has a remarkable ability to uplift our spirits and bring people together. It serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we have the power to find joy and share it with others.
So, let us embrace the magic of laughter, for it holds the key to a happier, healthier, and more connected world. Remember, laughter is not just a reaction; it is a gift we can choose to give ourselves every day. Let us laugh freely, live fully, and cherish the remarkable healing power of laughter.
