Laughter IS good medicine

How many times have you heard someone say that? Turns out that it’s true! Numerous studies show that not only is laughter good for you mentally but physically as well. Winner, winner, chicken dinner!  So, today’s blog topic is laughter – because we could all use a lot more of it in our lives.

Did you know that April 14 was International Moment of Laughter Day ? No joke! The unofficial holiday encourages people to forget the stresses of daily life and give into the healing and relaxing power of laughter. HA!

Why is this so important? Health is important. It’s that simple. Laughing can reduce stress, increase blood flow, lowers blood sugar levels and can even promote better sleep. It can lead to reductions in stress hormones. When a person laughs the brain releases endorphins that can relieve some physical pain. It can increase immune cells and infection fighting antibodies. It can make it easier to cope with tough situations, can help lessen depression and help you connect with others. And here’s a personal favorite – laughter can help you burn calories! Okay, so not a lot of them, but still it can be a small assist to your fitness plan. Fifteen minutes of laughter can burn ten to 40 calories. Who knew?

The point is that laughter is beneficial in many ways. It’s a tough world we live in and some days it’s hard to find anything to smile about; much less laugh about. Humor can and does make a difference – at work, at home, in our personal and professional relationships. Finding a reason to laugh is important for our physical and emotional health.

So, I will leave you with a thought that made me chuckle just a little – “An apple a day keeps anyone away if you throw it hard enough.”

Posted by MJ Thomas