Laughter is often thought of as a simple response to something funny. It’s something that you hopefully do every day. But laughter’s importance goes far beyond just being a way to express joy and amusement. Many people say laughter is medicine for the soul, and they’re right. It has numerous physical, mental, and social benefits that make it an essential part of a healthy and happy life.
Why does laughter matter?
Think about the last time you laughed. What did it feel like? What were you doing? How did you feel after? When you ponder these questions you probably come to the conclusion that laughing feels good, and even thinking about laughing feels good. Laughter matters because it is an important part in creating a positive atmosphere in your life. It is an indicator that things are going well, and in times when things are not, laughter can provide tremendous relief. There are many reasons laughter should matter to you. Here are some of them:
Physical benefits
Have you ever laughed so hard your stomach hurt afterward? That’s because your ab muscles are working hard!
When we laugh, even if it’s just for a moment, our bodies go through a range of physical changes. You take in more oxygen-rich air, and your heart, lungs, and muscles are stimulated. This can help to boost your immune system, lower blood pressure, and reduce stress hormones like cortisol. Laughter can even help to relieve pain by triggering the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers!
Mental health benefits
Laughter is also beneficial for your mental health. When you laugh, your brain releases feel-good chemicals like dopamine and serotonin, which can improve your mood in the short and long term. It can also help to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Additionally, laughter helps to improve cognitive function by boosting creativity, problem-solving skills, and memory. A good night of laughing with friends makes you feel good for a reason!
Social benefits
On top of physical and mental benefits, laughter is a powerful tool for building social connections. When we laugh with others, it creates a sense of bonding and camaraderie. It can also help to diffuse tension and conflict, making it easier to navigate difficult situations. Not only that, but laughing together can help to strengthen relationships and build trust.
Coping Mechanism
During times of stress or difficulty, laughter can be a valuable coping mechanism. It can help you to shift your perspective, find humor in challenging situations, and maintain a sense of resilience and optimism. By using laughter as a coping mechanism, you can reduce the negative impact of stress on both your mental and physical health.
Improves overall quality of life
Finally, laughter simply makes life more enjoyable! It adds a sense of fun and playfulness to your daily life, and can help you to approach challenges with a more positive outlook. When you prioritize laughter and make time for it in your life, you can experience greater satisfaction, joy, and fulfillment.