We’ve all heard the phrase, “laughter is the best medicine.” While it may sound silly to some people, there is no denying that laughter can have a profoundly positive impact on your mental and physical wellbeing. Laughter alone obviously cannot be used to cure any serious ailments or health conditions, but consistent daily laughter can offer several short and long-term benefits to your health.
Short-Term Benefits of Laughter
Laughing doesn’t just help lighten your mood, it serves as a real way to reduce high stress levels that can trigger any number of physical and mental health concerns like elevated heart rate and high blood pressure. It can also help reduce physical effects of stress by aiding in circulation and muscle relaxation. Laughter enhances the body’s intake of oxygen-rich air, stimulating your heart, lungs, and muscles. Additionally, laughing can trigger the release of healthy endorphins to the brain.
Long-Term Benefits of Laughter
Laughter offers more than just a mood lightener and stress reliever. It’s also very good for your long-term wellness. Laughing can help boost your immune system by negating negative thoughts that turn into unhealthy chemical reactions that may decrease your immunity. In some cases, laughter can help relieve pain by causing the body to produce its own natural painkillers. For people who experience depression and anxiety, laughter can help lessen your symptoms over time.
It’s important to find some time to laugh every day. If you’re feeling overly stressed out, seek out things or activities that will help you see the lighter side of things. Watch a funny movie or tv show. Read a humorous book. Spend time with the people in your life who consistently make you laugh. Trying to keep an optimistic mindset is always highly recommended.
Whether laughing comes naturally to you or you are someone who needs to make a conscious effort to laugh, letting laughter into your life can be highly beneficial now and for many years to come. Even when you may not be feeling great, finding a way to laugh can help alleviate your stress and generally help you feel better. For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our healthcare providers today, contact Family Practice Center. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for additional tips, patient testimonials, news, and more.