Benefits of laughter

Having a good sense of humor has numerous long-term and short-term mental health benefits.

Short-term mental health benefits of humor. Laughing automatically triggers positive physical and mental changes that help to relax your mind. The short-term benefits of laughter include:

• Organ stimulation: A good laugh improves your intake of oxygen-rich air. This, in turn, stimulates organs such as the heart, lungs, and muscles. Your brain also releases endorphins — hormones that cause a feeling of pleasure and a relaxed mind.
• Stress relief: Laughing activates your body’s stress response mechanism. This process changes your heart rate leaving you in high spirits.
• Relief from tension: Laughter also stimulates rapid blood circulation. When this happens, you may experience a calming sensation that takes away tension and stress.

Long-term benefits of humor on mental health. In addition to the short-term benefits, humor has several scientifically proven long-term effects. Some of them include:

• A boost to the immune system: Positive thoughts lead to the release of neuropeptides. These are brain chemicals known to fight anxiety, stress, and other related mental conditions. Having negative thoughts may result in chemical reactions in the body that cause elevated stress levels, which in turn works against your immunity.
• Pain relief: A good laugh causes your body to release natural painkillers, thereby relieving you of physical pain.
• Positivity: Having a good sense of humor can help you interact and connect with other people. Positive thoughts and good relationships may assist you to cope by taking your mind off difficult situations.
• Improving mood: Laughter can significantly lift your spirits by reducing anxiety and depression, making you happier.