Humor to Reduce Stress

You’ve probably heard the phrase “laughter is the best medicine”, but did you know that research shows the reason laughter may be so good for you is it is one of the best ways to reduce stress. It may seem obvious that you feel immediately happier when you laugh, but there are actual physical changes occurring in your body. Your brain releases feel good hormones called endorphins, blood circulation is stimulated and muscles relax. In the long term, regular bouts of laughter have been shown to improve your mood, lower your pain response and increase personal satisfaction. It may seem forced at first, but you can work to develop your sense of humor by making a concerted effort to look for the humor in daily life. Surround yourself with items that make you laugh and make it a choice to spend time with friends who inspire laughter. Take a step back from a stressful situation you might be in and try to find how looking at it from a different perspective might seem funny. You’ll soon be laughing to a happier and healthier life.