The Positive Effects of Laughter and Humor
Laughter is good for your health.
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, thus improving your resistance to disease.
Laughter triggers the release of endorphins. Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain.
Laughter burns calories. OK, so it’s no replacement for working out, but one study found that laughing for 10 to 15 minutes a day can burn approximately 40 calories—which could be enough to lose three or four pounds over the course of a year.
Laughter lightens anger’s heavy load. Nothing diffuses anger and conflict faster than a shared laugh. Looking at the funny side can put problems into perspective and enable you to move on from confrontations.
Laughter helps you stay mentally healthy.
Laughter makes you feel good. This positive feeling remains with you even after the laughter subsides. Even in the most difficult of times, a laugh–or even simply a smile–can go a long way toward making you feel better.
Laughter stops distressing emotions. 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.
Laughter draws you closer to others, which can improve all aspects of your mental and emotional health.
How to bring more laughter into your life Smile
Smiling is the beginning of laughter, and like laughter, it’s contagious. Instead of looking down at your phone, look up and smile, at people you pass on the street, the person serving you a morning coffee, or at your co-workers.
Count your blessings. Literally, make a list. The simple act of considering the positive aspects of your life will distance you from negative thoughts that block humor and laughter.
Spend time with fun, playful people. These are people who laugh easily–both at themselves and at life’s absurdities–and who routinely find the humor in everyday events.
So tell a joke, watch a comedy, play a silly game.
Remember, whatever life throws your way, laughter really can be the best medicine! Laura.Hildwein@phxschools.org
602-397-3405
