Laughter is the best medicine

They always say that laughter is the best medicine. Even Gilda’s Club started off as a place for people to help their cancer treatments by finding the humor in daily life.

It is actually proven that laughter has health benefits. According to helpguide.org:

“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 well-being 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.”

On the radio today, Focus on the Family talked about the importance of instilling laughter in your relationships as well. They were talking about marriage and the importance of being friends with your spouse, but I think it extends beyond that as well.

We often get into deep conversations with friends, talking about all the troubles we are going through. Sometimes it seems like to be close to someone our talks have to be important and thought-provoking.

Although that is great, think of the people who you really like to spend time with. How often does that person make you laugh? I’m sure it’s quite often.

Every has a different funny bone, has different topics/actions/sounds/touches that make them laugh. Focus on the Family talked about having to study our loved ones to see what inspires them to laugh so that a bond can be created that way.

Laughter means happiness. Happiness means relaxation. We don’t often make ourselves laugh, so we need people around who can help loosen us up.

Do you relationships have enough laughter?