The good news of laughter - start today!
By Happiness Correspondent
If there is one thing you can do today to make you happier and healthier, maybe try laughter.
Laughter is not only fun to do - it is a strong medicine. This is really good news for you and your life.
This simple act draws people together in ways that trigger healthy physical and emotional changes in the body.
Laughter strengthens your immune system, boosts mood, cuts pain, and protects you from the damaging effects of stress.
Still more - it works fast.
Humour lightens your burdens, inspires hope and increases connection with others.
It also helps you release anger and forgive sooner.
The good news is - this massive medicine is fun, free, and so easy to get going.
As children, we used to laugh hundreds of times a day, but as adults, life tends to be more serious and laughter happens less and less.
But it doesn’t have to be that way.
Try laughing more and boost your emotional health, boosting your relationships, find greater happiness—and even add years to your life.
Laughter relaxes the whole body. A good, hearty laugh relieves physical tension and stress, leaving your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes after.
Laughter boosts the immune system.
Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, and improves your resistance to disease.
Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals.
Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain.
Laughter protects the heart. Laughter improves the function of blood vessels and increases blood flow, which can help protect you against a heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.
Laughter even burns calories and reduces anger.
It may even help you to live longer.
A study in Norway found that people with a strong sense of humour outlived those who don't laugh as much.
You can't feel anxious, angry, or sad when you're laughing.
Laughter helps you relax and recharge. It reduces stress and increases energy, enabling you to stay focused and accomplish more.
It also shifts perspective, allowing you to see situations in a more realistic, less threatening light.
