3 Science-Backed Ways Laughter Keeps You Healthy
They say laughter is the best medicine but is that really true? Does laughter actually help keep illnesses at bay? Turns out, it really does. Don’t believe us? Well, according to research, not only does laughing get you in high spirits and makes sure that you and everyone around you is happy, but it also helps keep your heart healthy and helps brain activity as well. Here is how laughing helps one stay healthy and happy.
1. Helps The Heart
A study conducted by researchers at the Maryland School of Medicine shows the association of laughter with the healthy functioning of blood vessels. It claims that laughter causes the endothelium (tissue that forms the inner lining of the vessels) to expand. The study also showed that stress has the opposite effect. Laughing maintains a healthy endothelium and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases, heart attack and stroke.
2. Helps Brain Activity
Laughter helps brain connectivity. A study that was published in the journal PLOS One shows that laughter fosters brain activity. There are differences in how we perceive different types of laughter such as joyous laughter, taunting laughter and tickling laughter. Each kind of laughter activates connections between different brain regions. So when we hear someone laugh, our brain instantly gets to work to determine what kind of laughter and communication is coming through.
3. Releases Feel-Good Chemicals
This one is a no-brainer. A study published in The Journal Of Neuroscience shows that laughing with others releases endorphins, i.e. feel-good chemicals, into our brain. This happens via opioid receptors. In fact, it is believed that laughter induces euphoria like a narcotic. Now, that’s something.
It’s time to lighten up! Not only is laughter highly contagious but it does wonders for your health as well.
