Laughter is a part of everyday life. It brings people closer and is the hallmark of happiness. Did you know that it can help boost one's health too? Laughing has both physical and emotional positive effects to the body.
Based on various studies and researches, genuine or deep-rooted laugh can possess many health benefits. Laughter helps in lowering the blood pressure. The reason behind this is, it helps the blood flow more freely along the vessels. In fact, a group of researchers at the University of Maryland studied the effects of laughter to people. They were shown comedies and dramas. After the screening, those who watched a comedy film shows had their vessels to behave normally while those who watched drama had their vessels all tensed and constricting the blood flow. Hence, laughter lowers blood pressure and reduces risk for cardiovascular diseases.
Laughing is a good ab workout. In fact, it can help tone the abdominal muscles. When someone is laughing, the muscles in the abdomen contract and relax which is the same when someone is working out their abs such as doing sit ups.
Also, laughing promotes stress relief. Stress hormones are noticeably low when someone is laughing. Stress hormones also help in boosting the immune system. If there are reduced stress hormones, more antibodies are produced to help the body fight off microorganisms that cause disease.
Laughing is best for people who cannot do physical activity to prevent heart disease. It helps the heart maintain healthy pumping. In fact, it can burn similar amounts of calories as walking in a slow to moderate pace.
It triggers the release of endorphins. Endorphins are the feel-good hormones that help in relieving stress and pain. It is a natural pain killer. Laughing was proved to be a good cure for depression and anxiety. It improves overall health of both the body and the emotions.