We all love to share a good laugh with family and friends. But laughter can also improve your health! Laughter brings people together in ways that support your body’s physical and emotional well-being. Laughter can help strengthen your immune system, improve your mood, relieve pain, and reduce stress. It’s important to remember to make time for jokes and laughter throughout your day to improve your overall health and find greater joy!

Laughter helps relax your body.

A long belly laugh can help relieve tension in your muscles and can leave them relaxed for up to 45 minutes afterward. With the stress and tension of everyday life that can build up in your body, it’s important to leave time for relaxation to keep your body functioning as it should.

Laughter boosts your immune system.

Laughing for a few minutes every day can help decrease stress hormones and increase immune cells and antibodies, which can improve your resistance to viruses and diseases.

Laughter releases endorphins.

Laughing can help trigger the release of the feel-good chemicals, endorphins. These endorphins help promote an overall sense of well-being and may even temporarily relieve pain.

Laughter improves heart health.

Laughter improves the function of blood vessels and can increase blood flow, which can help prevent heart attacks or other cardiovascular issues.

Laughter burns calories.

Although it’s no replacement for the gym, studies have shown that laughing for 10 to 15 minutes a day can burn up to 40 calories, which is better than nothing! Laughter also makes you feel better about yourself, which can inspire you to make healthier choices every day.

Laughter helps you stay mentally healthy.

Laughter makes you feel good, and that positive feeling can remain with you long after the laughter ends. Having a sense of humor can help you keep a positive outlook through difficult situations. Laughter is also contagious, so a little laughter can go a long way to spread joy to the people around you.

Take some extra time this month to laugh. Your body and mind will thank you!