With today’s fast-paced lifestyle, many people are dealing with more stress than ever before. Factor in the rising cost of gasoline and the slowdown in the economy and it’s clear to see a population that is stressed. There is more and more data indicating that a good laugh may be the best way to combat stress. So go to the local comedy club or watch free comedy clips online to relieve stress.
The health benefit of laughter is no joke, and it provides both long-term and short-term benefits. When you laugh, you not only lighten your mental load, but also cause physical changes in your body.
Laughter increases the intake of oxygen-rich air, stimulates the heart, lungs, and muscles, and increases endorphins released by the brain. A good laugh cools down your stress response and increases your heart rate and blood pressure. The result is a good feeling of relaxation and lower rates of stress. Laughter can also ease digestion and stimulate circulation, which helps reduce some of the physical symptoms of stress.
Long-term benefits include an enhanced immune system. Negative thoughts manifest in chemical reactions that can affect your body by putting more stress on your system and lowering your immunity. Rather, positive thoughts actually release neuropathies that help combat stress and potentially more serious illness. A study of people with cancer who watched humorous videos showed less stress. and an increase in a particular cellular activity that is beneficial in fighting diseases such as HIV and cancer. Research is increasingly showing that laughter can ease pain by triggering the body to produce its own natural pain relievers.
Laughter can also help make difficult situations a little easier. A study of nurses who work in emergency rooms found that nurses who use humor when dealing with their patients and coworkers experience higher job satisfaction. They also experienced feelings of personal fulfillment more than those who don’t laugh during their shifts.
The facts are that laughter is good for you, and it’s also a lot of fun. So watch that funny movie or go to the comedy club or watch comedy online to enjoy the positive effects of humor on your body and mind.