Throughout school as children, we would usually get in trouble for laughing in class (which probably made our laughing worse). But what would you say if someone told you to laugh more? In fact, it is highly recommended to laugh every chance you get. Not only does laughing come with a significant amount of health benefits, but it also makes us…happy.
Helps Manage Stress
Laughing is proven to release a hormones called endorphins, which are often referred to as “feel good hormones.” These hormones are known to reduce other stress hormones like cortisol and epinephrine that are often associated with weight gain. In addition, endorphins are known to help reduce pain and create an overall happier mood.
Improves Immunity
Next time you feel a cold coming on, have someone to tell you a really funny joke! Laughing is proven to increase the production of antibody producing cells that increases your immunity. Just like ensuring you’re eating enough vitamin C by eating oranges, make sure you’re getting a healthy serving of laughter as well.
Protects your Heart
Not only will laughing make you happy, but it will help protect your heart. Laughing has been proven to help improve the function of blood vessels and increase overall blood flow which can help reduce your risk for heart disease.
It’s a Workout
In addition all the health benefits, laughing can actually burn calories! Depending on the intensity of your laugh, it can burn up to 40 calories per every 15 minutes. Laughing also causes your abdominal muscles to expand and contract which is an additional physical benefit – so technically, it may have similar effects of doing a couple of crunches.
The next time you are spending time with your family or friends, be sure to laugh! Not only will you be improving your quality of life and health, but you will be boosting your ability to shed those extra pounds but having fun doing so! Check out this helpful tips to help boost your weight loss even more!