Do you snigger, snort, titter, or guffaw? There really isn’t a better feeling than laughing. Sometimes it’s completely involuntary and weirdly contagious, when one person starts laughing it slowly moves around a group, with all eventually joining in, even if they don’t know why they are laughing.
Sunday 2nd May marks World Laughter Day, and let’s face it after our recent tough times, we could all do with a laugh. And did you know that laughter has its very own health benefits.
- Creates a general sense of well-being – When you laugh you instinctively feel better, and the more you laugh the better you feel. This can have a positive impact on your life.
- Endorphins are released– Endorphins are the natural painkillers within your body, and laughter triggers their release. This helps you feel great and help ease pain at the same time.
- Reduces stress hormone levels – This helps to cut stress and anxiety levels which in turn can cause a higher immune system performance.
- Lowers blood pressure – Laughing can lower your blood pressure, which helps reduce your risk of a heart attack or a stroke.
- Boost T-cells – T-cells are the specialized cells in your immune system, that are activated by laughing.
- Improve cardiac health – Laughter gets your heart pumping, like a gentle workout.
- Work your abs – Laughter helps tone your abs. The muscles in your tummy begin expanding and contracting when you’re laughing, better than a sit up any day!
So, to tickle your funny bone he is one of my favourite jokes.
Q. What did the cheese say when it looked in the mirror?
A. Halloumi
The Health benefits of laughter: World Laughter Day – 2nd May 2021