Laugh It Up!

Laugh It Up!

laughingoldman-stencilA whole new field of laughter/humor therapy is emerging and research shows that some good belly laughing can really improve health and well-being.

Laughter helps alleviate stress and anxiety by reducing the level of stress hormones that build up in your body, including cortisol and adrenaline. It also increases the level of “feel good” chemicals in the body such as endorphins (natural pain killers), dopamine and oxytocin. Your body and your mood can get a natural boost from laughter.

Laughter provides a good physical and emotional release. It’s a good workout for your diaphragm, abdomen, and shoulders (and even your heart!) and can leave your muscles feeling more relaxed. A good laugh can also leave you with a cleansed feeling from healthy emotional release.

Try some of these easy ways to UP the laughter in your life:

    • Watch funny movies (check out Patch Adams)
    • Laughter really IS contagious so find reasons to laugh with friends
    • Check out Laughter Yoga
    • Fake it ’til you make it (research shows that faked laughter also provides benefits and can lead to genuine laughter)
    • Have a Game Night
    • Play with little kids, puppies, or kittens

 

Related posts:

  1. Laughter Yoga for Stress & Anxiety Relief
  2. Yoga or Walking for Anxiety Relief?
  3. Silence
  4. Less Stress Now: Have A Good Cry
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