Aging is no laughing matter. Or is it? I’m sure you’ve heard the saying, “laughter is the best medicine.” Of course, if you are suffering from a serious illness or an injury, there is no substitute for a good doctor. However, there’s lots of data around to validate the value of laughter.
First of all, it is impossible to feel stressed when you laugh. When we laugh our physiology changes. Our blood pressure goes down and our blood flow is increased. The body releases endorphins, our “happy hormones,” which reduce the stress hormones, adrenalin, and cortisol. Another benefit of laughter is that we tend to breathe more deeply, which is good for the lungs and increases the level of oxygen in our blood. Our blood vessels relax, improving blood circulation.
Some experts believe that laughing provides the body with a mild workout. Studies have shown that 10-15 minutes of laughter can burn 50 or more calories. That’s a fun way to get some exercise in, right? Some studies even suggest that laughter can boost the body’s immune system and the brain.
Laughter also has some social benefits. It’s hard to be angry with someone when you are laughing. Laughing with others can strengthen relationships and encourage teamwork. That’s why companies often hire comedians to perform at group meetings.
How much are you laughing these days? As we grow up, it seems that our propensity to laugh spontaneously declines. It is estimated that children laugh over 300 times a day compared to around 20 for adults. As adults, we have a tendency to sensor our laughter. Children see the funny side of everything and laugh at things that we adults may refer to as “silly.” Hmmm. Maybe the children have it right and we are the ones being silly by not laughing more.
Here’s a few ways to help get your laugh on:
Watch comedy shows
Check out your favorite comedians on YouTube
Get a “Joke of the Day” calendar
Take a Laughter Yoga class
Watch toddler videos
Share and exchange jokes with friends
Look for the funny side of those things that would normally just frustrate you.
So have a dose of laughter today. You can share it with a loved one, a co-worker, or the cashier at the market. It will benefit your health and your aging.
Love & Light to you,
Renee