Paging Dr. Frischer: Laughter

We are all aware that the state of our health revolves around diet, exercise, and lifestyle. But consider this: Good health may also require finding moments of joy, humor, and human connectedness. Everyone is familiar with the expression “laughter is the best medicine.” There are so many stressors in our lives; in today’s world this may be especially critical. Is there scientific data to support it?

Many of us recall learning about the fight or flight response, which kicks in when we experience stress. It stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, which assists us in dangerous situations. Our breathing becomes shallow, our pulse speeds up, and our pupils dilate. This may all be quite necessary in moments of need, but it is tough on our bodies if we are in this state all of the time.

Now consider the rest and digest response. The parasympathetic nervous system instructs our bodies to slow down, lower our heart rate, and breathe more easily. It kicks in when we are not in danger, and can safely lower our guard. We can help this get started with deep breathing, exercise, meditation, yoga, listening to music…and with laughter.

Laughing alleviates stress by decreasing epinephrine and cortisol levels, stress hormones which play a role in depression and anxiety. During times of connectedness and joy, such as laughing with a friend or watching a funny movie, our bodies produce feel-good hormones like dopamine, oxytocin and endorphins.

On top of this, research has demonstrated that humor can be a powerful strategy in support of our mental health. Using humor in therapy sessions has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, boost self-esteem, and improve social skills and communication. Laughter can enhance memory, creative thinking, friendliness, energy, and hopefulness.

The evidence indicates that laughter may help support physical health by decreasing blood pressure, slowing the heartbeat, improving the immune system, respiratory function, and muscle tension, and offering pain relief. Laughter therapy has been shown to reduce insomnia. Optimists likely live longer, as they are less likely to die of a heart attack or stroke. While it is difficult to assess these claims in a rigorous scientific way, it is clear that a positive outlook with social connectedness and community, along with a sense of purpose and humor, can lead to a longer, healthier life.

Here’s a start: Force a smile. Give yourself a chuckle. Are your muscles a little less tense? Take stock of how you’re feeling. Think about how you can bring levity into your life. Listen to a favorite comedian, or read funny books. Human contact, of course, is still the best – be open to getting together with family and friends who might help you laugh.

It’s no joke. I firmly believe that laughter can reverse the stress response and improve our mental and physical health. Try incorporating more lightheartedness into your life and give your nervous system a rest. Laughter can indeed be the best medicine.