Laughter is a universal language. Babies can laugh before they learn to speak, and in some cases, laughter can be contagious. Even smiling is a mild, silent form of laughing. Laughter can relieve stress, and laughing for 15 minutes each day burns about 10 to 40 calories.
A good chuckle can’t cure everything, but research has shown that laughter:
To help increase the amount of laughter in your life, try following these healthy tips:
A good chuckle can’t cure everything, but research has shown that laughter:
- Lowers blood pressure by expanding blood vessels
- Boosts your immune system by decreasing stress hormones
- Is a natural pain killer because it increases endorphin levels
- Improves brain function and stress levels by easing muscle tension
- Tones facial muscles and nourishes the skin, making it glow
To help increase the amount of laughter in your life, try following these healthy tips:
- Be aware of humorous moments in each day, and don’t take yourself too seriously
- During dinner with family, share something funny that happened that day
- Watch funny movies and television shows
- Reflect on funny times in your past
- Pay attention to children, and be more like them – they are experts on playing, taking life lightly and laughing
The latest from Prevea Health
The health benefits of laughter
Your health is no laughing matter, so take some time to relax, smile and crack a joke.
Crying
Taking care of a crying baby can be a challenge for parents, but there are calming measures to help soothe your baby.
Feeding baby
For new parents, feeding your baby can feel overwhelming. Questions about feeding baby are very common.
Infant play and tummy time
Eighty percent of a child's brain development occurs in the first three years of life.