Laughter really is the best medicine
They say that laughter is the best medicine. Well it appears there are a number of physiological and scientific reasons to support this age-old statement.
A good laugh has great short-term effects. When you start to laugh, it doesn't just lighten your load mentally; it actually induces physical changes in your body. And laughter isn't just a quick pick-me-up. It's also good for you over the long term.
How it affects us – Firstly, laughter triggers the release of endorphins – the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Endorphins promote an overall sense of wellbeing and can even temporarily relieve pain.
Blood flow – Researchers at the University of Maryland studied the effects on blood vessels when people were shown either comedies or dramas. After the screening, the blood vessels of the group who watched the comedy behaved normally – expanding and contracting easily. But the blood vessels in people who watched the drama tended to tense up, restricting blood flow.
As such, laughter can be seen to be protecting the heart and other organs. Increasing blood flow aiding circulation can help protect you against a heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.
Blood sugar levels – One study of 19 people with diabetes looked at the effects of laughter on blood sugar levels. After eating, the group attended a boring lecture. On the next day, the group ate the same meal and then watched a comedy. After the comedy, the group had lower blood sugar levels than they did after the lecture.
Immune system support – Increased stress can be associated with decreased immune system response. Some studies have shown that the ability to use humour may raise the level of infection-fighting antibodies in the body and boost immune cells as well. Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, improving your resistance to disease.
Negative thoughts manifest into chemical reactions that can affect your body by bringing more stress into your system and decreasing your immunity. In contrast, positive thoughts actually release neuropeptides that help fight stress and potentially more-serious illnesses.
Laughter and mental health – Laughter dissolves distressing emotions. You can’t feel anxious, angry, or sad when you’re laughing. It helps you relax and recharge. It reduces stress and increases energy, helping you stay focused and accomplish more. A good, hearty laugh relieves physical tension and stress, leaving your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes after.
Humour shifts perspective, allowing you to see situations in a more realistic, less threatening light. A humorous perspective creates psychological distance, which can help stop you feeling overwhelmed.
Laughter can also assist in coping with difficult situations and assist with resilience as well as helping you connect more easily with other people.
Pain relief - Laughter can even ease pain by causing the body to produce its own natural painkillers. And that’s no laughing matter!