Why Your Health is a Laughing Matter
For as long as I can remember, my mother tried her best to impress upon me the importance of proper diet and exercise.
After the usual spiel of how I should walk more and eat all of my greens, she always finished by telling me the same thing that all mothers said. That my health was no laughing matter.
Like an obedient daughter I learned to love my greens and have always remained active. Yet in later years it was not my physical health that would become a concern. It was my mental health. Because I had struggled with bouts of mild depression for most of my life, I did not notice how miserable
I had become since turning the big “40″. That is until recently when, once again my mom came to the rescue. Over tea I confided in her that I was at my wits end and how nice it would be just to laugh again. Her advise, as usual was simple and to the point. She told me to laugh!
When she explained that the simple act of laughing can make you feel better , I did laugh. How could doing something as simple as laughing help me feel better? But being the inquisitive type, I decided to find out for myself. And the laugh was on me.
I found out that laughter is good for a great many things
Laughter boosts your self confidence
Laughing makes you look younger
Laughing increases endorphin levels, and can help calm pain.
Laughter lowers the stress hormone Cortisol, and promotes relaxation, as well as fighting belly fat.
Laughter stimulates the heart causing increased blood circulation that is said to be equivalent to any other aerobic exercise. So don`t be afraid. Go ahead and tell your mother she was wrong. Your health is a laughing matter.
Liked it
lanne | Nov 1, 2007 | Reply
I apologize for the layout of this article. It looks nothing like what I submitted and have asked that it be fixed.
Laurie
Darlene McFarlane | Nov 2, 2007 | Reply
Very good advice. Many people do laugh when they are told laughing is good for them but, it is true.
Darlene McFarlane | Nov 2, 2007 | Reply
It would be nice if your articles appeared as we submit them. It is frustrating when your work doesn’t appear as you plan.
jerry | Nov 6, 2007 | Reply
Nice Layout, nice article. Have you ever heard of the non-denominational church in Japan that is devoted to laughing? They begin & end each service with everyone placing their hands on their hip, rocking forward & back, laughing uproariously. We have tried it a few times at my church. Great fun!
lizzie 2 uk | Nov 11, 2007 | Reply
We all need to laugh. It releases all those ‘feel good’ chemicals. I always taught my kids as they grew up, that if ou can make someone laugh each day, you’ve done a wonderful job.
lanne | Nov 11, 2007 | Reply
You are right lizzy laughing does feel good. Sometimes we just don`t notice how good until we stop, and are reminded of the good it brings.When I laugh, it makes those around me happier too!!! Good deal all around.
Lucy Lockett | Nov 27, 2007 | Reply
I am sure I laugh less these days but I’ll put that on my to do list(haha).Good article and reminder.
cece | May 6, 2008 | Reply
im doing a report on how laughing can truly help improve health. this was a inlightning story and will also help with my speech! thank you
lanne | May 6, 2008 | Reply
Your welcome and thank-you cece.Laughter IS the best medicine.