Laughter Reduces Stress Laughter is a Stress Buster. It is one of the finest and easiest to practice anti-stress measures. Laughter is one of the best muscle relaxants. Laughter expands blood vessels and sends more blood to the extremities and other muscles all over the body. A good bout of laughter also reduces the levels of stress hormones epinephrine and cortisol. It can be said to be a form of dynamic meditation or relaxation. To meditate, one has to detach oneself from the emotions, mental thoughts and physical sensations so as to prevent distractions. On the other hand, while laughing, we do not have any conscious thought process and all our senses are naturally and effortlessly combined harmoniously, to give joy, peace and relaxation. In other types of meditation you need to concentrate to take your mind away from any distracting thoughts, which is easier said than done. Therefore, laughter is, if I might say so, the easiest form of meditation and one which brings you instant relaxation.
Laughter is Contagious
Laughter strenghtens the immune system. The immune system plays a most important role in maintaining good health and keeping away infections, allergies and cancers. it has been proved by psychoneuroimmunologists that all negative emotions like anxiety, depression or anger weaken the immune system of the body, thereby reducing it's fighting capacity against infections. According to Dr. Lee S. Berk from Loma Linda University, California, USA, laughter helps to increase the count of natural killer cells (NK cells - a type of white cell) and also raises the antibody levels. Researchers have found that after laughter therapy there is an increase in antibodies (immunoglobulin A) in the mucous in the nose and respiratory passages, which is believed to have protective capacity agains some viruses, bacteria and other micro organisms. There are many members of Laughter Clubs who have noticed reduced incidences of common colds, sore throats and chest infections. The effect of laughter on the immune system is considered to be very significant with regard to deadly diseases like AIDS and Cancer.
Social Benefits of Laughter. Ongoing research shows that people suffering from depression are more prone to many illnesses like high blood pressure, heart disease and cancer. Depression also affects the immune system adversely. Common cases of depression are social isolation and diminishing family value system. These are much more in western countries but are now slowly affecting the east also. Laughter clubs have helped many people to get rid of their antidepressant pills in a short period of time. This magic, which has worked wonders, is the friendship and brotherhood gained from Laughter Clubs. Laughter Clubs are fast developing int close-knit communities. With the spread of Laughter Clubs in every locality, each club has taken the shape of a small community, wherein its' members experience a sense of affiliation and belonging to the group. Laughter Clubs are turning into large "Laughing Families".
More Benefits of Laughter!
Please double-click play on the video to the right to learn more about the benefits of laughter programs.
Laughter Alleviates Bronchitis and Asthma
Laughter Improves Stamina in Athletes
Laughter is Internal Jogging
Laughter is Good for Actors and Singers
Laughter Makes You Look Younger
Laughter helps Interpersonal Relationships
Self Confidence Through Laughter
Laughter is the Best Aerobic Exercise
Laughter in Depression, Anxiety and Psychosomatic Disorders
Laughter in High Blood Pressure and Heart Disease
Laughter is a Natural Pain Killer
The above information is from the book: Laugh for No Reason
by Dr. M. Kataria.
Please double-click on the play button to listen.
Special thank you to Dr. Kataria for permission.
Great Reading:
I highly recommend the following book by Dr. Kataria Laugh for No Reason The only book about the new concept of laughter yoga
$24.95 US
Pamela Tracz R.N. S.C.M. CLYT
Hamilton’s Woman Of The Year In Communications, 2002
35 Stonechurch Rd. Unit 3-364
Ancaster, Ontario L9K 1S5 pam@laughingisgoodforyou.com
The Happy, Healthy,
Certified 