Why Laughing Is Great For Your Brain Health
The famous saying "laughter is the best medicine" is apparently grounded in scientific truth, according to healthcare experts. The Mayo Clinic speaks highly of the numerous health benefits attributed to laughing, including both short-term and long-term effects.
Laughing at a television show, a colleague's joke, or something you find amusing online all have a positive effect on your brain health. This is because laughter "enhances your intake of oxygen-rich air, stimulates your heart, lungs, and muscles, and increases the endorphins that are released by your brain," per the Mayo Clinic.
In addition to being great for your brain health, laughing helps reduce stress and soothes tension held in your body. Laughter stimulates blood circulation, which helps with your stress response and aids in muscle relaxation. It also helps boost your mood, which improves your mental health and brain function, per Help Guide. These are a few examples of the ways in which laughing benefits you in the short term, and the long-term benefits are equally amazing.
Long-term benefits of laughter
Laughing improves your immune system over time thanks to the way it combats your stress response. According to the Mayo Clinic, "positive thoughts can actually release neuropeptides that help fight stress and potentially more serious illnesses" — so the more you laugh, the more you fight stress and boost your immune system in the process. Humor and laughter also help you cope with difficult situations more easily, which improves your mental health in the long run as you'll feel more prepared to tackle whatever life throws at you.
Researchers in the field of psychology have indicated that laughing allows positive emotions to flourish, which builds your resiliency and increases your creative thinking, per The Conversation. This helps you to feel more empowered to tackle your problems, including those that occur in both your personal and professional life. Plus, researchers found that laughter improves the work environment, which is hugely important since you spend a good portion of your time at work each week. Who knew laughing could do all that?