The Healing Power of Laughter

Did you know that 20 seconds of laughter could be as good for the lungs as three minutes spent on a rowing machine?

The use of humour has been used in medicine for years. Surgeons used humour to distract patients from pain as early as the 13th century.

According to some studies, laughter therapy may provide physical benefits, such as

• boosting the immune system, circulatory system

• enhancing oxygen intake

• stimulate the heart and lungs

• Relax muscles throughout the body

• Trigger the release of endorphins

• Ease digestion/soothe stomache ache

• Relive pain

• Balance blood pressure

• Improve mental functions (alertness, memory and creativity)

Laughter therapy may also help to:

• improve allover attitude

• Reduce stress/tension

• Promote relaxation

• Enhance quality of life

• Strengthen social bonds and reationships

• Produce an general sense of wellbeing

A great example demonstrating the positive impact of laughter on our health and wellbeing is Norman Cousins. After years of prolonged pain from serious illness, Cousins helped himself with a self-invented regimen of laughter and vitamins. The book Anatomy of an Illness, published in 1979, describes how comedy helped Mr Cousins recover.

When I was diagnosed with cancer, one of the best pieces of advice someone gave me, was to ditch the news (watching them always make us feel down) and to increase the amount of comedy I watch. It really helped my spirits so much. Whether your life has been impacted by covid and the ongoing lockdowns, cancer or depression, do yourself a favour and avoid the news channel on your TV and radio. Instead shower yourself in comedies and uplifting conversations with people who make you happy.