So, although making time for laughter might not seem like a priority, experts point out that its effects on the brain can not only boost our mood but also our productivity. Daniel Sgroi, an economics professor at the U.
Sgroi explained that laughter "fast tracks networks in the brain to help you concentrate and focus," working as the equivalent of a productivity boost. However, he stressed that the laughter has to be genuine. Research that Sgroi co-authored, published in , found evidence of a link between happiness and productivity. So grab the Sunday paper, flip to the funny pages, and enjoy your laughter medicine.
By reducing the level of stress hormones, you're simultaneously cutting the anxiety and stress that impacts your body. Additionally, the reduction of stress hormones may result in higher immune system performance. Just think: Laughing along as a co-worker tells a funny joke can relieve some of the day's stress and help you reap the health benefits of laughter.
One of the benefits of laughter is that it can help you tone your abs. When you are laughing, the muscles in your stomach expand and contract, similar to when you intentionally exercise your abs. Meanwhile, the muscles you are not using to laugh are getting an opportunity to relax. Add laughter to your ab routine and make getting a toned tummy more enjoyable. Laughter is a great cardio workout, especially for those who are incapable of doing other physical activity due to injury or illness.
A good laugh has great short-term effects. When you start to laugh, it doesn't just lighten your load mentally, it actually induces physical changes in your body. Laughter can:. Laughter isn't just a quick pick-me-up, though. It's also good for you over the long term.
Laughter may:. Are you afraid that you have an underdeveloped — or nonexistent — sense of humor? No problem. Humor can be learned. In fact, developing or refining your sense of humor may be easier than you think. Laugh and the world laughs with you. Find a way to laugh about your own situations and watch your stress begin to fade away. Even if it feels forced at first, practice laughing. It does your body good.
Consider trying laughter yoga. In laughter yoga, people practice laughter as a group. Laughter is forced at first, but it can soon turn into spontaneous laughter. Go ahead and give it a try. Turn the corners of your mouth up into a smile and then give a laugh, even if it feels a little forced. Once you've had your chuckle, take stock of how you're feeling. Are your muscles a little less tense? Laughter is something we all need more of throughout our day—but during a crisis, it can easily be misunderstood.
Limited or unallowed visitation, such as the current pandemic requires, can make a stay more difficult for patients, and they may take overheard laughter out of context or find it inappropriate given whatever may be occurring in another area of the unit. If necessary, use enclosed areas to conduct the above three-step exercise.
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