Time for Laughter

It's not just a cliche that 'laughter is the best medicine.' There really is truth in it.

Laughter:
- Reduces pain. Our bodies produce pain-killing hormones called endorphins in response to laughter.
- Strengthens immune function. A good belly laugh increases production of T-cells, interferon and immune proteins called globulins.
- Decreases stress. When under stress, we produce a hormone called cortisol. Laughter significantly lowers cortisol levels and returns the body to a more relaxed state.

Scientific evidence has shown that laughter helps people breathe easier and it massages the heart and other vital organs. It may also increase the release of disease-fighting cells in the immune system. Like exercise, laughter quickens the pulse and stimulates the cardiovascular system. In experiments, students who watched funny movies were found to have an increased flow of infection-fighting proteins in their saliva.

I'm going to put this into practice tonight because Mark and I are going to see Robin Williams!