Rx Laughter: Best Medicine

Laughter is the physiological response to humor. Laughter consists of two parts -- a set of gestures and the production of a sound. When we laugh, the brain pressures us to conduct both those activities simultaneously.
by Mike Corthell

Most agree that laughter is the best medicine. Is that statement true? If it is true why is it true?

''In the sweetness of friendship let there be laughter, and sharing of pleasures. For in the dew of little things the heart finds its morning and is refreshed.''
Khalil Gibran

Laughter is one of the most powerful antidotes to pain and stress.  Nothing is faster or more dependable. A good laugh takes a load off our minds. It inspires hope and it connects us to others.

What exactly does good humored laughter do?

Laughter relaxes the whole body. Relieving physical tension and stress.

Laughter boosts the immune system. It does this by decreasing stress hormones and increasing immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies.

Laughter releases endorphins. These are the body’s feel-good chemicals. Endorphins promote well-being and temporarily relieve pain.

Laughter protects the heart. Laughter improves the health of blood vessels and increases blood flow.

In short laughter just makes you feel so darn good!

The good feeling that we get when we laugh stays with us long after the laughter stops. It also keeps us in a positive frame of mind and optimistic in difficult situations like high stress and disappointment. It helps us through grief.

Laughter is much more than just a relief. It gives us the courage and strength. We find new meaning and new hope in life. 

Laughter really is contagious— it's easy to share. Hearing laughter makes your mind smile. Spread the joy and join in.

''My dog used to chase people on a bike a lot.
It got so bad, finally I had to take his bike away.''
~
Some things are just universally funny, to wit:

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