Benefits of laughter
The benefits of laughing include:
· Gives a sense of "Well Being" ;
· Can reduce the level of irritation caused by little things;
· Can increase a sense of hope;
· Can help with sleep;
· Can reduce stress;
· Is a form of meditation;
· Is a form of aerobic exercise which can be done without getting sweaty, and by people confined to bed or wheelchairs.
It does this because:
1. Laughter relaxes the muscles.
2. Laughter expands blood vessels and sends more blood rising to the extremities and other muscles all over the body.
3. Laughter reduces blood pressure.
4. A good bout of laughter reduces the levels of stress hormones epineprine and cortisol.
5. It is a form of dynamic meditation and relaxation.
6. It strengthens the Immune System, helping maintain good health and keeping away infections, allergies and cancers; it increases the count of natural killer cells (NK cells - a type of white cell).
7. It increases the number of antibodies (Immunoglobulin A) in the mucous on of the nose and respiratory passages, which is believed to help protect against some viruses, bacteria and other micro organisms. (So we may get less colds and sore throats).
8. It increases the levels of endorphins in our bodies, which are natural pain killers. Endorphins released as a result of laughter may help in reducing the intensity of pain in those suffering from arthritis, spondylitis and muscular spasms of the body.
9. It alleviates Bronchitis and Asthma. It improves the lung capacity and oxygenlevels in the blood.
10. It reduces stress headaches through the act of shaking tensions out of our shoulders.
11. It massages the internal organs, enhances their blood supply and increases their efficiency.
12. It makes us look younger since we exercise our face muscles, and get a facial glow. Laughing can help us look and feel more cheerful and attractive.
13. It helps overcome inhibitions, and so increases confidence.