Medical Benefits of Laughing

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Medical Benefits of Laughing
Patricia Hill

Laughing provides many health benefits for the mind and body; particularly the immune and cardiovascular systems. Laughing is also one of the fastest methods of relaxation, known to quickly reduce stress and the physical and mental illnesses associated with stress. Additionally, laughing is a great form of exercise that burns calories just like a workout.

Significance
Laughing is considered an emotional medicine to boost the immune system, reduce stress, dissolve anger, lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Blood Pressure
Laughter has a positive effect on blood pressure. When an individual laughs, the first thing the blood pressure does is increase, then the blood pressure decreases lower than normal. This generates deeper breathing, which in turn sends more oxygenated blood through the body.

Immune System
Stress hormones reduce infection fighting antibodies our bodies need to fight infection. Laughter reduces stress hormones and increases the antibodies necessary to fight infection.

Heart Benefits
Laughing may offer protection against heart attack and stroke by expanding the inner lining of the walls of the arteries. This inner lining, when expanded, increases blood flow.

Brain
Both sides of the brain are stimulated during laughing. This brain stimulation reduces stress and muscle tension, enhancing attentiveness and brain function.

Exercise
Laughter exercises the diaphragm, midsection, face, muscles in the back, abdominal organs and intestinal tract. The positive effect on the intestinal tract aids in the absorption and digestion process of the digestive system.

Emotionally Healthy
Laughter instantly elevates mood and acts as a form of therapy as stored feelings of anger and frustration are released. The ability to laugh at oneself creates healthy self-esteem.

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