5 Reasons To Consider Laughter As A Key Wellness Practice

Everybody who has told you that laughter is the best medicine has been correct all along. Several scientific facts back the age-old saying, so we should consider laughter as part of wellness.

You may notice a slight shift after watching a good comedy special, a comedic movie, or even laughing with friends. It turns out that there is scientific backing that links laughter to overall better wellbeing.

Of course, we are not saying laughing can cure illnesses, but it sure can make you feel better. Take a look at the five science-backed reasons to consider laughter as a key wellness practice from today.

Releasing Endorphins

Recent studies show that laughing, especially with others, releases endorphins in the brain through our opioid receptors. If you didn’t already know, endorphins are a feel-good chemical we all naturally produce.

Although we all have opioid receptors in our brains, some have more than others. Those who have more can experience a powerful euphoric effect from laughter, almost like doing drugs, sans the negative effects.

Relationship Bonds

Another study found that people who laugh together often have higher-quality relationships. The study also presented that women regard a sense of humor as a top-three essential traits when looking for a partner.

Antidepressant Effects

Most antidepressants work by triggering the release of the serotonin neurotransmitter in the brain. Research shows that laughter also activates the release of the serotonin brain chemical, which is fantastic.

Unfortunately, experts are not sure of how long these effects of laughter last just yet. However, the activity that laughter triggers in the brain is potent enough for professionals to look into laughing gas as an antidepressant.

Stimulate The Brain

Not all laughter is the same, and researchers have found that different brain parts activate for different laughter. As a result, laughter stimulates activity in different parts of the brain encouraging brain region connectivity.

Heart Protection

Research shows that laughter has an anti-inflammatory effect that protects heart muscles from cardiovascular disease. While researchers have made this link, they still haven’t found exactly how yet.

Currently, they suspect that the decrease in the body’s stress response when laughing may be the reason. The high-stress response has been linked to increased inflammation resulting in damaging cardiovascular effects.