DIY
SMILE. IT’S 1. APRIL
Imagine if all that is going on with 2020, was just an April Fools joke. I mean, do try to have fun today, smile, laugh, make jokes on this crazy situation!
Laughter is the best medicine.
It’s true: laughter is strong medicine. Laughter might just be the most contagious of all emotional experiences – it’s fun, free, and easy to use. What’s more, it is a full-on collaboration between mind and body.
Laughter can strengthen the immune system, relax muscles, aid circulation, diminish pain, and protect you from the damaging effects of stress. Laughter can lower anxiety, release tension, improve mood, and foster resilience. Humor is known to lighten your burdens, release anger, inspire hope.
Of course, laughter also enriches social experience. Laughter, as well as speech, enables us to bond quickly and easily. Scientists do know that laughter is a highly sophisticated social signalling system, helping people bond, strengthen relationships, help defuse conflict, and even negotiate. Humour is important in romantic attraction too. A study confirms that humour and playfulness are highly valued traits in potential romantic partners.
The science of laughter suggests that it’s a smart thing to do. Here’s why:
Physical Health.
Laughter relaxes the whole body. A good, hearty laugh relieves physical tension leaving your muscles relaxed. Laughter also improves the function of blood vessels and increases blood flow which can help protect you against cardiovascular problems.
Laughter boosts the immune system. In a study, laughter was found to lower stress and inflammation by decreasing stress hormones and increasing immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies.
Mental Health
Laughter triggers the release of endorphins. Laughter makes you feel happier and releases endorphins (feel good hormones) in the brain, and puts you in a better mood. A review of research on laughter therapies suggests they can reduce anxiety, depression, and perceived stress.
Laughter relieves frustration. Nothing diffuses anger and conflict faster than a shared laugh. To see problems from a different perspective try looking at them from a funny side and find humour in the situation.
And how?
Smile. Smiling is the beginning of laughter, and like laughter, it’s contagious.
Count your blessings. Keep a gratitude journal, make a list, or pray. The simple act of being grateful for the positive aspects of your life will distance you from negative thoughts that block humour and laughter.
