Laughter heals

Laughter is a very powerful aide in health. Studies have shown that when we laugh, natural killer cells are increased. These are known to destroy tumors and viruses. Laughter also increases Gamma-interferon (a disease-fighting protein), T-cells (important for our immune system) and B-cells (which make disease-fighting antibodies). It can lower blood pressure, increases oxygen in the blood; all of which encourages healing

The sound of laughter is far more contagious than any cough, sniffle, or sneeze. Humor and laughter can cause a domino effect of joy and amusement, as well as set off a number of positive physical effects. A good hearty laugh aides in the following:
• reduces stress,
• lowers blood pressure,
• elevates mood,
• boosts immune system ,
• improves brain functioning,
• protects the heart,
• connects you to others,
• fosters instant relaxation
• makes you feel good.

Many studies link depression, anger, anxiety, and stress to heart disease and the ability to laugh at stressful situations helps mitigate the damaging physical effects of distressing emotions. It does this by lowering blood pressure and causes deeper breathing which sends oxygen enriched blood and nutrients throughout the body.

Other benefits include giving a good workout to your diaphragm, abdominal, respiratory, facial, leg, and back muscles. It massages abdominal organs, tones intestinal functioning, and strengthens the muscles that hold the abdominal organs in place. Not only does laughter give your midsection a workout, it can benefit digestion and absorption functioning as well. It is estimated that hearty laughter can burn calories equivalent to several minutes on the rowing machine or the exercise bike.

So here are some helpful hints:

• Attempt to laugh at situations rather than bemoan them – this helps improve our disposition and the disposition of those around us.
• Use laughter to release pent-up feelings of anger and frustration in socially acceptable ways.
• Laugh as a means of reducing tension because laughter is often followed by a state of relaxation.
• Lower anxiety by visualizing a humorous situation to replace the view of an anxiety-producing situation.
• Remember that even in the most difficult of times, a laugh, or even simply a smile, can go a long way in helping us feel better
• Laughter is the shortest distance between two people.
• Humor unites us, especially when we laugh together.
• Laughter heals.
• Laughs and smiles are enjoyed best when shared with others.
• To laugh or not to laugh is your choice.