Laugh Yourself to Health

Is laughing good for you? You bet it is. You can actually laugh yourself healthy. Laughter is good medicine even during the most difficult times. I am sure you have heard that laughter is the best medicine. Where is the pharmacy to fill your prescription you ask? It is as close as the smile on your face. Smiling is the beginning of laughter and is very contagious. Laughter is one lifestyle choice you can make that can increase your lifespan and it doesn’t cost a dime. To laugh or not to laugh is a choice only you can make. Laughter is anti-aging, it increases the levels of endorphins in your body, which are natural pain killers. It is a great way to maintain a youthful outlook on life. I’ve even had a headache disappear after a hearty laugh. It helps you relax. I often watch America’s Funniest Videos just to boost my mood and help me cope with whatever might be bothering me at the moment.

I got a chuckle out of these;

• “If at first you don’t succeed, then skydiving definitely isn’t for you.”
• “If you think nobody cares about you, try missing a couple of payments.”

If you laughed at these you probably lowered your blood pressure. When people have a good laugh their blood pressure increases at first and then decreases to a below normal level. A good laugh makes you feel good and gets rid of anxiety. Relieving anxiety reduces the stress to your immune system. Having a healthy immune system increases the likelihood of living longer. An anti-aging prescription for sure!

Did you know that hearty laughter can burn calories? It is equal to several minutes on the exercise bike or the rowing machine at the gym. It also strengthens the muscles that hold the abdominal organs in place. Laughter keeps the brain alert, reduces stress and eases muscle tension. It gives our bodies a real workout! That is no laughing matter. As we learn more and more about laughter it’s becoming more evident that laughing can make us healthier mentally and physically. The more I read about the benefits of laughter the more I want it to be a major choice for my own healthy lifestyle.

Humor also provides temporary relief from our everyday problems. Humor helps adjust the meaning of a sad or frustrating event so that it is not so overwhelming. Bill Cosby hit the nail on the head when he said, “If you can laugh at it you can survive it.” When life gets you down, laugh! People who laugh often and have a good sense of humor can deal with stress easier and view life in general with optimism.

Laughter and humor enhances our ability to connect with others. Research tells us that in the company of others you laugh 30 times more than when you are alone and the bigger the group, the more you laugh. Remember a good guffaw is healthy especially when you laugh with someone. Smiles and laughs are enjoyed most when you share them with others. So get out there and laugh yourself healthy and if you see someone who needs a smile, give them yours!

staying youthful