Dr. Valery Litvinov, senior researcher in the Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology at Perm National University in Russia, said that laughter relieves pain, reduces anxiety, and stimulates the immune system.
Laughter helps the human body fight stress, resist viruses, and reduce the risk of developing malignant tumors.
The press service of Perm National University quoted Dr. Valery Litvinov as saying: "During laughter, the production of endorphins increases, which reduces the sensation of pain, relieves anxiety, and gives a feeling of mild euphoria. At the same time, the levels of dopamine and serotonin rise; the former creates a feeling of pleasure, and the latter works on psychological stability and helps to cope with stress. Thus, the mood is balanced, and the nervous system moves from a state of tension to a state of recovery."
Laughter also helps to lower levels of cortisol and adrenaline, the height of which can lead to damage to the heart, blood vessels, and metabolism.
The expert adds: "The immune system begins to work more efficiently, as the functions of immune cells that fight viruses and tumors improve. Metabolism also stabilizes thanks to a decrease in glucocorticoid hormones, and the elasticity of blood vessels and the heart improves as a result of the increased pulse and vasodilation during laughter, followed by a phase of deep relaxation, which maintains normal blood pressure."
Respiratory training: Deep inhalation and exhalation while laughing improves lung ventilation and blood oxygen saturation, which is beneficial for people with respiratory illnesses.
Muscle relaxation: After a bout of laughter, the body's muscles relax for up to 45 minutes, reducing physical tension.
Strengthening social bonds: Shared laughter strengthens relationships, promotes team spirit and creates a positive atmosphere, which supports mental health.
Ways to increase laughter in your daily life:
Watching comedy movies and humorous programs.
Connect with cheerful and positive people.
Reading jokes or funny stories.
Playing with children makes them the best teachers of genuine laughter.
Smiling and joking are acceptable within the bounds of respect and good treatment.
