We have all heard the phrase ‘laughter is the best medicine’, although it is widely used, it is not a saying that is given much thought. Have you ever stopped to think about the benefits laughter can, and does, have on your health? No? Well, there are several proven benefits, both physical and mental, from flashing a smile and having a giggle which can increase your happiness.
4 Ways Laughter Can Increase Your Happiness
Let’s have a look at the amazing benefits you can get from laughing a bit more everyday!
1. Relaxation
Smiling and laughing doesn’t just lighten your mood, it also induces physical changes in your body. It increases your intake of oxygen, which in turn, stimulates circulation in your heart, lungs, brain and numerous other muscles. This relieves physical tension and stress and can have calming effects on your body for up to 45 minutes.
2. Boosts Your Immune System
Negative thoughts are a catalyst for unwanted chemical reactions in the body, which can induce stress, decrease immunity and contribute to weight gain. When we laugh, endorphins are released which reduce the amount of Cortisol (stress hormone) in our system. Smiling and laughing are also known to be natural painkillers, as they flood the body with endorphins. That is why, it is often a natural reaction to laugh when we bump our funny bone or fall over.
3. Improves Your Mood and Self-Esteem
When laughter is shared, it creates a sense of happiness and intimacy with others. Laughing is a physical expression of a mental emotion. Releasing these emotions, has huge benefits for both your physical and mental health. It decreases the effects of stress and allows for a more objective, positive outlook. Additionally, smiling and laughing can have a great effect on self-esteem. They are attractive and appealing attributes that make your company more desirable, which can boost confidence in social situations.
4. Weight loss
Laughing has been referred to by some as internal jogging, this is because it increases your breathing, heart rate and metabolism. It is also a great source of energy which generates motivation, a positive attitude and willpower. These effects of smiling and laughing are key tools for staying on track and motivated with your weight loss plan. Seeing results will provide intrinsic rewards which release endorphins and increase happiness and, in turn, health.
Smiling and laughing are medicine for the mind and body, who knew improving your health could be so easy?!
With Motivation it’s also easy to improve your health! Check out how the Motivation program works. If you have any further queries about our Weight Management programme please contact your local clinic.
