On Laughter

We’ve all heard the expression Laughter is the Best Medicine, but how many of us take it seriously?

            The first one to do so was, of course, Norman Cousins who was diagnosed with a degenerative disease that caused him severe pain. When doctors were convinced that he would not live more than a few months he took matters into his own hand to reverse the damage. He left his hospital bed and followed his personal road to recovery. He took massive amounts of vitamin C and embarked on laughter therapy by watching comedies. He soon realized that ten minutes of laughter allowed him to sleep pain free for several hours. He slowly improved as he continued to laugh as much as he could. Two years later he returned to work completely cured. 

            Laughter is good for the body and the soul as it increases endorphins leading to brain activity which amps up memory and recall. In short it makes the brain work better. Nothing works faster or is more dependably to bring your mind and body back into balance than a good laugh. A study in Norway found that people with a strong sense of humor outlived those who don’t laugh as much. The difference was particularly notable for those battling cancer. In addition studies have found that laughter improves the function of blood vessels which can help protect against a heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.

            What about those who seem to have negativity ingrained in their heads? It then becomes a question of making the effort to focus on things that can make them feel better, and laughter is a great vehicle to reach that goal. It certainly reverses a bad mood.

             Laughter therapy to relieve negativity, pain and stress is free and universally accessible to everyone. There are of course comedies on television and movies and many radio stations now offer comedy hours. There’s also laughter yoga which provides exercise for the body and the mind. We only have to look to find sources of laughter. Or hanging around with those for whom laughter comes easily rather than with sourpusses.

            Groups calling themselves Laughter on Call visit care centers to help those suffering from dementia and severe pain, and they are making a difference. They are improving the lives of people who might not find much to laugh about in their reality.

            Canadian Albert Neremberg, one of the world’s top experts on the benefits of laughter, uses laughter therapy when working with patients in drug and rehab centers. “Recovering addicts are pining for a rush, and laughing gives them the most natural high there is,” he says.

            As it does for the rest of us!