“Laughter is health” – is a very well-known saying, however, we often do not think about its meaning. Is it really so? And what influence do laughter and good humor have on our health? Let us check!
Most of us know that laughter has a very positive effect on our health. But what is its exact effect and what does it primarily affect?
When we laugh, many of our muscles work intensively – not only our face, but also our abdomen. Internal organs are stimulated and breathing deepens. It is even estimated that during a hearty laugh, our lungs take in up to three times more air than normal. This translates into better oxygenation of the body and brain. This improves our concentration and ability to remember things. Different parts of the lungs – usually much less active – are then ventilated. The blood circulation speeds up, and so the blood pressure decreases
During hearty laughter, we also get rid of excess adrenaline. As a result, we relax and de-stress. In turn, the brain during this time secretes happy hormones, or endorphins. These are important chemical compounds that affect the feeling of suffering, sadness or pain. Thanks to them our mood improves, we feel fulfilled and satisfied
There is more and more talk about laughter therapy. It turns out that it helps to relieve emotions and frustration caused by e.g. illness. Thanks to this, the patient starts to have a slightly different perspective on the whole matter and often gains the will to fight and the belief in overcoming difficulties. A positive attitude affects every sphere of our life. There is even a “Dr Clown” foundation, in which volunteers dressed as clowns visit small patients in hospitals, make them laugh and allow them to forget about problems and illnesses, and at the same time motivate them to fight for their health
There is also laughter yoga, which involves practicing appropriate relaxation and breathing techniques. During such classes their participants acquire the ability to cause laughter, even when no one around has done or said anything funny. Such yoga has many physiological and psychological benefits
Few people know that laughter also increases our immunity. This is proven by numerous scientific studies. This is because the production of T lymphocytes is stimulated, and they are so important in the fight against viruses. It has also been noted that the level of immunoglobulin A increases. What is it? Immunoglobulin A is an antibody that prevents upper respiratory tract infections from occurring. Of course, the aforementioned endorphin, which acts as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic, also plays a key role
What is the conclusion? Well, the more we laugh, the less likely we are to contract various infections!
Main photo: Antonino Visalli/unsplash.com
