The Benefits of Laughter

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Feeling down and depressed? Laugh all those troubles away. Laughter is a simple yet substantial way of putting that little spring back in the step. When people say “Laughter is the best medicine,” what are they referring to? Laughing acts as calorie burner, prevents heart disease or other illnesses, can increase learning abilities and focus, or even bring a more optimistic outlook on life.
One of the many benefits gained by laughter are the physical benefits. “I believe laughing is the best calorie burner” (Hepburn). The average person, in fact, laughs 13 to 15 times day. A few minutes of laughing will help burn a handful of calories, according to the Vanderbilt University Medical Center in 2005. This center released proven research that laughing between 10 and 15 minutes a day can help burn between 10 and 40 extra calories. The calorie burning takes place because of increased heart rate when laughing. Even one good belly laugh burns off roughly 3.5 calories. Meanwhile your mind might drift to the calories burning when being doubled over crying while watching a comedy on TV, don't forget the other health benefits of laughing. Believe it or not, 15 minutes of laughter have the same benefits as getting two hours sleep. It helps release fear, exercises the diaphragm, relieve anxiety and stress, and lowers the
Pickering 2 body's level of cortisol, which aids the immune system. Laughing increases oxygen intake, stimulates heart and lungs, improves overall breathing abilities, and increases the body’s energy level. Laughing exercises several muscles in the body including: the abdomen, back, shoulders, and 15 facial muscles. So when coming home from a stressful day at the office, exercise might not be a top priority. Keep in mind that ...

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...f the way, more doors will be opened and more light shone on the better things in life.
Never forget to laugh. "If you can laugh at it, you can survive it" (Cosby). Life is difficult for everyone. It is how people deal with these strives and struggle is what matters. Sometimes, the best way to get a break from the hardships of life is to simply laugh with friends and family. It’s a Balance process. Some people can be caught up in life’s problems and forget to laugh. Laughter is the mental medicine for life. Laughter supports the health of the body. Laughter can break up the quietness in a room. Laughter can change the room from black and white to a rainbow of colors. Laughter is a result of looking at something in a positive light. Is the glass half empty or half full? Whatever the circumstance, never underestimate the power of a good giggle. Never forget to laugh.

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