Life is not always funny. There are clear physical and emotional reasons to laugh, however. One minute of anger results in toxic chemicals floating in the body for five hours, while one minute of laughter results in positive chemicals that strengthen the immune system for 24 hours. That’s pretty compelling. But there are plenty of other reasons to laugh.
Laughter is healthy for the body and soul. Laughing lowers blood pressure, reduces stress and increases antibodies in the blood stream and makes us more resistant to infection.
Laughter provides us a moment of grace. It can catch us by surprise just as we never expect grace or good fortune when it arrives. And in that grace, we can have a better perspective on our life. It helps us not take ourselves too seriously and helps us stay positive, regardless of the circumstances in our lives. Even when things are as bad as we may think they are, laughter helps create positive emotions and helps us reframe our mindset so we can more easily cope with our struggles and challenges.
Laughter doesn’t permanently solve any problems, but it makes things a lot more bearable for awhile. Laughing at our own mistakes eases tension and stress. When you can help your loved ones do the same, laughter becomes a loving act. Who doesn’t enjoy the laughter of a loved one or seeing them smile?
Laughter can also be a sign of humility and life. Children laugh nearly 100 times more per day than adults do. It’s another reason to look to kids for how to live with joy and gusto!
We’re all flawed and imperfect. Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes it’s hard as hell. Start looking for more ways to laugh – and, regardless of your life situation or circumstance, you can change your outlook and mindset in seconds and improve your health.
“Laugh my friend, for laughter ignites a fire within the pit of your belly and awakens your being.” – Stella McCartney
