The importance of laughter for human health is increasingly being proven by scientific research. According to Dr. Michael Miller, Professor of Cardiology and Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania in the USA, sincere laughter has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system, immunity, and general mental state. In particular, laughter helps relieve stress and alleviate the psychological pressure accumulated in everyday life.
One of the studies that scientifically supports these ideas was conducted by Stanford University psychologist William Fry. He took samples of his own blood while watching films featuring the famous comic duo Lorel and Hardy. The analysis showed that laughter increases the number of blood cells that activate the immune system.
Dr. Michael Miller began studying the effects of laughter on the human body back in the 1990s. He showed the study participants various funny videos and discovered that during laughter, endorphins - "happiness hormones" - are produced in the brain. These substances trigger beneficial chemical reactions in blood vessels. In particular, nitric oxide is formed, which dilates blood vessels, lowers blood pressure, reduces inflammatory processes, and the level of "bad" cholesterol. This significantly reduces the risk of heart attack. Moreover, endorphins also act as natural painkillers.
Miller advocates a healthy lifestyle and recommends treating laughter as an "exercise" along with physical activity. According to him, just as it is important to exercise at least three to five days a week, it is equally beneficial to laugh sincerely two to five times a week.
Interestingly, in some cases, forced laughter can be no less beneficial than natural laughter. Jenny Rosendhal, a senior researcher in medical psychology at the University of Jena in Germany, conducted a meta-analysis based on 45 studies and scientific works related to laughter therapy. According to her findings, laughter therapy reduces blood glucose levels, the stress hormone cortisol, alleviates chronic pain, and improves mobility and overall well-being. This influence is especially noticeable among the elderly.
Many studies conducted in recent years have focused on laughter yoga and similar programs. Such sessions usually consist of 30-45 minute sessions and create a prolonged state of laughter. Laughter yoga is considered a particularly effective method for people who don't want to laugh, are depressed, or are struggling with serious illnesses, including cancer.
According to experts, laughter is an easy, free, and natural "medicine." The more you add it to your life, the better your health and mood will be.
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