Laughter: The Best Medicine

Light Others' Candles by Sharing

Laughter is priceless! When was the last time you laughed until your belly ached?

Understandably, life could sometimes get so stressful that we do not give laughter a chance!

I would like you all to meet one of my ex-students, Ms. Temilola who is doing well for herself as a registered nurse and midwife.

Temilola is inspiring, and I call her Tammy!

This pretty young lady constantly wears a very contagiously cheerful countenance that effortlessly makes anyone around her feel comfortable.

She laughs over anything! Yes, she does not only laugh, but cracks up real hard, and her positive attitude is amazing!

Like anyone else, she has had her low moments, but conquered them all!

Little wonder, when some people had doubts as to whether or not she could get back on her feet, she did not only do that, but today, she could challenge them to a marathon, and I bet you: she will sure beat them to it hands down!

Laughter could be scientifically defined as “a successive, rhythmic, spasmodic expiration with open glottis and vibration of the vocal cords, often accompanied by baring of the teeth and facial expressions.”

It conveys more meaning than words, could be considered a language in itself, and is very beneficial to wellness. 

Furthermore, making conscious efforts (by practicing mindfulness) towards taking certain things less seriously, and laughing over some, could go a long way in making those seemingly stressful situations, appear easier to tackle.

Appreciating humor and finding more avenues that promote laughter should be an integral part of our lives.

Laughter Helps Relieve Pain

Interestingly, this does not happen literally. Mmmhmmm; you heard me loud and clear, people!

The pain levels do not reduce. Rather, people who laugh very often, admit being less bothered by the pain they experience, because their perceived pain levels reduce, and their belief, that they can cope, steps up.

This source reveals that laughter helps overcome discomfort.

Several research studies have proven, that laughter is one of the easiest ways of triggering the release of pleasure-inducing neurochemicals in the brain.

After a good laugh, the “natural high” occurs and the brain releases endorphins, which are natural morphine-like compounds that turn raise the pain threshold steps up, and induce euphoria. Laughter.

Laughter Improves Respiration and Circulation

During a good laugh, the heart rate temporarily increases, and this causes an oxygen surge in the bloodstream which is great!

By the same token, the blood vessels function better, and the increased blood flow can help protect the heart against heart attacks and other cardiovascular conditions.

Besides relaxing the entire body, it equally relieves stress and tension.

Several research studies bear witness to the fact, that after a good hearty laugh, muscles in the body get relaxed for as long as forty-five minutes.

Laughter Improves the Immune System

Who is ready to give the muscles of their face, chest, shoulders, diaphragm, and back a workout?

Sometimes, just laugh at yourself – It is okay too!

Did you know that a positive emotional climate could be established, reinforced, and restored during a great laugh?

Laughter Bonds

Laughter ignites for some people, a justifiable reason to create social connections.

What are you waiting for? Start surrounding yourself more, with people who bring into your life, more humor.

Recognize, appreciate and take advantage of the slightest opportunity to get yourself, a good laugh, because laughter prolongs life. Yes, it does!

Stay healthily primed!