Laughing is a natural medicine: 7 surprising health benefits of laughing

We’re in a laughter deficit but laughing is so good for our health. It makes us happier, healthier and…smarter?

Laughing is a natural medicine: 7 surprising health benefits of laughing
Apparently we’re in a laughter deficit. 42% of us don’t remember the last time we properly belly laughed. Which is not great for our health - laughing plays a big part in keeping our brains and bodies happy and healthy. It improves our mood, reduces stress and actually might just help us live longer.
 
So why are we laughing less?
  • 👵 Adulthood As we get older, life becomes a bit more stressful. We have bills to pay, targets to hit and houses to keep clean (and warm).
  • 📰 Consuming bad news Breaking news notifications are instant and commentary is everywhere on social media. We’re surrounded by bad news which makes it less likely to have a good ol laugh.
  • 💬 Technology > IRL With the growth of digital connection, we’re communicating with friends and family through text rather than in person. The 😂 has replaced the actual IRL laughs. We’re actually 30x more likely to laugh when we’re with friends than on our own.
 
The laughter deficit has lead to the growth of laughter therapy classes such as laughing yoga. We’re actually paying to sit in a room and start laughing. And why do we think that is? Because there’s a lot of benefits to having a laugh.
 

So what are the health benefits of laughter?

Here’s 7 health benefits of having a good laugh with friends.

1. Releases ‘happy hormones’ to boost your mood

Probably the most obvious one. Laughing elevates your mood and happiness by increasing the release of endorphins which promotes feeling of happiness. It also sparks dopamine and serotonin release, which are two neurotransmitters involved in making you feel happy and motivated.

2. Reduces cortisol levels to reduce stress

Laughing triggers the release of endorphins, which are natural chemicals that reduce the production of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. This helps balance cortisol levels and makes you feel less stressed. The more you laugh, the less stressed out you'll feel.

3. Acts as a natural painkiller

“If I don’t laugh, I’ll cry” is a common coping mechanism for us. And it actually works. Laughing triggers the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers that can alleviate physical pain and discomfort. So if you’ve grazed a knee or gone through a break up - try and laugh it off.

4. Improves immune system

When we laugh, our bodies produce more antibodies and activate T-cells. These cells help fight off infections and diseases, making you less likely to get sick. So, the next time you're feeling under the weather, try watching a funny movie or having a giggle IRL.

5. Relaxes the whole body

A proper belly laugh relieves physical tension and stress in the body. It can leave your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes. You know that relieving ‘aahh’ feeling after you’ve laughed with friends - that’s your body relaxing.

6. Makes you smarter and more creative

When we’re happier, we’re smarter. So having someone in the office who brings the laughs and scheduling in time during your day to have a giggle might actually make you smarter and more creative.

7. Improves cardiovascular health

Laughter increases blood flow and oxygenation, as well as stimulating the production of nitric oxide, a molecule that helps relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure. It can also reduce the stiffness of your arteries which reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

7. Increases life expectancy

A recent study found that people with a strong sense of humour outlived those who don't laugh as much. So by laughing a lot, you might just live a bit longer!
 
 
So the next time you go to type the 😂 emoji, why not use that as a trigger to book in some real face to face time with your friends. Because it’s likely most of the times you’ve cried laughing is when you’re phone-free.
 
🤣
Why not book in some IRL time with friends of your partner to get a good ol belly laugh in the diary? You can book your escape here.
 

Fancy time away from the screen?

Recharge your batteries by going off-grid for 3 days. Backed by science - you will feel more calm, relaxed and creative after your digital detox.

Book Your Digital Detox Cabin

Related posts

What is dopamine? And how does your phone impact dopamine release?What is dopamine? And how does your phone impact dopamine release?
5 ways nature can nurture your creativity5 ways nature can nurture your creativity
Why do we have our best ideas in the shower? Why do we have our best ideas in the shower?
What is the 3-2-1 rule? And how can it improve your sleep quality?What is the 3-2-1 rule? And how can it improve your sleep quality?
5 ways to clear brain fog5 ways to clear brain fog
Food for Thought: How The Mediterranean Style Diet Can Boost Your Brain Power and HappinessFood for Thought: How The Mediterranean Style Diet Can Boost Your Brain Power and Happiness
A Guide: How To Digitally Detox At Home A Guide: How To Digitally Detox At Home
The Human Touch: Why social media can’t replace real human connection The Human Touch: Why social media can’t replace real human connection
Bad News: Why consuming bad news isn’t good for your brainBad News: Why consuming bad news isn’t good for your brain
Reading On Screens vs Paper: Which Is Better?Reading On Screens vs Paper: Which Is Better?
The science behind the health benefits of owning a dog The science behind the health benefits of owning a dog
What is ‘Skychology’? How looking at the sky can boost your wellbeingWhat is ‘Skychology’? How looking at the sky can boost your wellbeing
Why bad weather is good for you: 6 benefits of walking in winter weather Why bad weather is good for you: 6 benefits of walking in winter weather
Why you should consider spending more time talking to strangers Why you should consider spending more time talking to strangers
Shh: The Benefits of ‘Intermittent Silence’Shh: The Benefits of ‘Intermittent Silence’
Why we cant stop mindlessly scrolling and 7 tips to beat it Why we cant stop mindlessly scrolling and 7 tips to beat it
What is Sunset Therapy? The benefits of watching the sun rise and set What is Sunset Therapy? The benefits of watching the sun rise and set
How to make your own dopamine menu How to make your own dopamine menu