How long has it been since you’ve had a real good laugh? Has it been awhile? If so, you’re missing out on one of the best things for your health, physically and emotionally.
Laughter causes a release of endorphins in your system. Endorphins are the body’s feel-good chemical. They promote an overall sense of well-being and can temporarily relieve pain as well. Laughter also protects the heart by relaxing your blood vessels and increases blood flow which in turn, protects you against a heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.
In addition, laughter strengthens our immune system, improves our mood, relaxes the muscles, helps relieve stress, and can help to burn calories. Laughter has been found to help to put things in perspective and to reduce one’s anger and resentment.
As kids, we used to laugh all the time, every day. But as we get older, we seem to be more serious and laugh less often.
A study in Norway revealed that people with a good sense of humor outlived those who don’t laugh much, particularly in cancer patients.
So, get out there and have some fun and laugh a little, or a lot. Your body will thank you for it!