Laughter

When was the last time you laughed and laughed until your stomach hurt and happy tears were streaming down your face? For me it was yesterday, it was the most ordinary, simple thing that set myself and my friend into fits of laughter and it felt gooooood!

So why is laughter so important?

• Laughter relaxes the whole body. A good, hearty laugh relieves physical tension and stress, leaving your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes after.
• Laughter boosts the immune system. Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, thus improving your resistance to disease.
• Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Endorphins promote an overall sense of wellbeing and can even temporarily relieve pain.
• Laughter protects the heart. Laughter improves the function of blood vessels and increases blood flow, which can help protect you against a heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.
  

           (source: helpguide.org)

Laughter and a sense of humour are crucial when dealing with life and it's ups and downs. Once you inject humour into a problem you immediately relax and change your state of mind and body.

So surround yourself with your funniest friends, your favourite comedy sketches and book a trip to the cinema to see the latest must see comedy film - your health requires it!

To get you in the mood, here is one of my favourite funny YouTube clips- only 15 seconds long!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHjFxJVeCQs&feature=player_embedded


Claire Brooker