Laughter may be the key to unlocking better physical and mental wellbeing, according to health experts. Just a few minutes of giggling per day can provide a host of benefits, from boosting the immune system to improving heart health.
The power of laughter has been recognised for centuries, with hospitals even bringing in clowns to cheer up sick children in the early 1900s. But modern research has shed new light on the medicinal properties of humour.
“There’s no downside to laughter,” explains Dr. Michael James Sas Jr., a primary care physician at Geisinger Lewisburg. “This ‘medicine’ is quick, free and accessible anywhere, with no negative side effects. Besides, it’s fun.”
Just 10-15 minutes of laughter can burn up to 40 calories, helping to keep blood sugar levels in check. Laughter also releases endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers, which can be especially helpful for managing chronic discomfort.
Laughing can also activate the immune system, with studies showing an increase in specialized white blood cells that fight cancer after people watched a funny video. It’s not just the immune system that benefits either – laughter helps us get more oxygen, improving blood circulation and slowing the heart rate.
“When we get all this oxygen to our organs, our heart rate decreases, brain fog can dissipate,” says psychologist Dr. Grace Tworek of the Cleveland Clinic. “It’s the opposite of the stress response. Increased oxygen can help you think more clearly and just allow your body to let go.”
So while laughter may not be a cure-all, experts agree that a daily giggle can go a long way towards better physical and mental health. As Dr. Sas puts it, “This ‘medicine’ is quick, free and accessible anywhere, with no negative side effects. Besides, it’s fun.”