This month we’re delving into the delightful world of laughter and its profound impact on our health and well-being. As the saying goes, “laughter is the best medicine,” and we’re about to explore just why that is!
The Science Behind Laughter:
Recent studies have shed light on the remarkable benefits of laughter for both our bodies and minds. One such study, conducted by Kramer et. al., revealed some fascinating findings:
- Spontaneous laughter is associated with a significant reduction in cortisol levels, a hormone linked to stress.
- Watching humour/comedy videos, participating in laughter sessions with a trained therapist, or even engaging in self-administered laughter programs can lead to a decrease in cortisol levels of as much as 31.9%.
- Even just a single laughter session can cause a substantial reduction in cortisol levels, highlighting the immediate impact laughter can have on our stress response.
- Laughter therapy, as a non-pharmacological alternative treatment, has been shown to have positive effects on mental health and the immune system, making it a valuable addition to traditional therapies.
Furthermore, research by Jong Eun Yim emphasises the contagious nature of smiling and its ability to influence our emotional state and reverse our stress response.. Dr. Marmolejo-Ramos adds to this, suggesting that by “forcing” ourselves to smile, we can stimulate the brain’s emotional center, leading to a more positive state of mind. So if you’re not feeling great, ‘fake it ‘til you make it’.
Tips for Incorporating Laughter into Your Life:
- Smile Often: Practice smiling throughout your day, even if you don’t feel like it initially. Your brain’s emotional center may respond positively, boosting your mood. Grinning is infectious- a smile has the power to spread.If you enjoy lifting others’ spirits and brightening their day, just let your smile shine.Smiles are free, why not share one with a stranger and brighten both of your days?
- Share Laughter with Others: Spend time with friends and loved ones who bring joy and laughter into your life. Laughter truly is contagious!
- Don’t Take Life Too Seriously: Learn to find humor in everyday situations and don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself. A lighthearted perspective can help alleviate stress and promote overall well-being.
Chiropractic Care and Laughter:
At Peak, we recognize the importance of a holistic approach to wellness, which includes promoting laughter and joy in our practice members’ lives. Our goal is to not only address physical ailments but also to support your mental and emotional health through Chiropractic care.
Share Your Laughter Stories:
We’d love to hear how laughter has made a positive impact on your life! Share your favourite jokes, funny anecdotes, or moments that brought a smile to your face with us so we can all have a giggle.
Thank you for being a part of our chiropractic community, and don’t forget to laugh your way to better health!
- Marmolejo-Ramos, F., et al. “Your face and moves seem happier when I smile. Facial action influences the perception of emotional faces and biological motion stimuli.” Experimental Psychology.
- Kramer, C. K., & Leitao, C. B. “Laughter as medicine: A systematic review and meta-analysis of interventional studies evaluating the impact of spontaneous laughter on cortisol levels.” Published online 2023 May 23. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286260.
- Yim, J. E. “Therapeutic Benefits of Laughter in Mental Health: A Theoretical Review.”
