Laughter Heals
“A cheerful heart is good medicine….” Proverbs 17:22
I grew up with Reader’s Digest and I recall laughing uproariously while reading the regular column, “Laughter is the Best Medicine.” It turns out laughter does indeed have health affects beyond tickling our funny bone.
Studies are affirming the connection between laughter and increased feelings of well-being since laughter produces endorphins in the brain including serotonin. Laughter also increases vascular function, speeds recovery, and may even increase the activity of NK cells (aka “killer cells”) that attack sick cells within our bodies–including tumors. Laughter has been used as a pain inhibiter and is part of the daily medical routine at the Gesundheit Institute, founded by Dr. Patch Adams.
And research shows that laughter doesn’t even have to be genuine. You can fake it, and still get the same benefits! Even a giggle will do you good.
No matter what kind of humor you enjoy, or what kind of laugh you employ, laugh! It’s the best medicine. Uncle Albert certainly knows how good laughter can be, and he loves to laugh!
Tongue on Fire 