Laughter as medicine
No April Fools joke here!
Researchers have poured a lot of time and energy in exploring the science of laughter.
Did you know, researchers have identified over 100 individual theories of laughter?
Did you know five types of laughter have been identified?
Genuine or spontaneous laughter
Self-induced or simulated laughter
Stimulated laughter, like when you’re tickled
Induced laughter, such as when you under the influence of certain drugs
Pathological laughter
According to researchers, laughing has short-term and long term effects that can benefit your mental and physical health.
Studies have demonstrated that watching or listening to humorous material increases a person’s ability to tolerate pain and decrease anxiety.
Research has shown that laughter has a similar effect on the body as exercise does. Laughter has also been shown to increase the amount of oxygen that reaches your lungs and muscles and releases endorphins in the brain.
In Europe, a study on people with dementia has shown a 20% decrease in agitation following humorous movies. These studies also indicate this effect was maintained six months later.
In Iran, research on the effects of laughter yoga and exercise therapy on depression has shown a significant decrease in depression symptoms. Laughter has also been shown to decrease other emotional states, such stress, poor self-esteem, and improve your life satisfaction. As stress levels decrease, the strength of your immune system increases, thus laughter helps you stay physically healthy. Even self-induced of simulated laughter can have benefits similar to spontaneous laughter. So, even when nothing is funny, try to get yourself to laugh. Your brain and body will thank you.
Make space in your life for laughter and joy!
