Health benefits of laughter: Here's how it helps beat stress, boosts physical health

Health benefits of laughing: A hearty laugh can leave muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes, helping to reduce your stress levels and promote relaxation (Image: Canva)

Laughter is often called the best medicine, and for good reason. Apart from making you feel good in the moment, laughter offers a range of health benefits that can help to improve both physical and mental well-being. According to a study by Heart Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar, Laughter relaxes the body, relieves stress, and boosts the immune system by increasing infection-fighting antibodies.

The study, published in the National Institutes of Science, suggests that laughter releases endorphins, improving well-being and temporarily relieving pain. Plus, it also protects the heart by improving blood flow and burns calories, with 10–15 minutes a day burning around 40 calories. Mentally, it promotes a positive outlook and resilience in tough times.

In a world filled with stress and challenges, laughter provides a simple yet powerful way to cope with problems and improve your health, says Archana Singhal, Counsellor and Family Therapist, Founder, Mindwell Counsel, Delhi.

Also read | World Laughter Day 2024: Date, history and significance

She shares some health benefits of laughter, as a medicine for well-being:

Relaxation and stress relief: Laughter relaxes the entire body by relieving physical tension and stress. A hearty laugh can leave muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes, helping to reduce your stress levels and promote relaxation.

Boosts the immune system: Laughter also strengthens the immune system. It reduces stress hormones and increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, improving the body’s resistance to illness and disease.

Triggers endorphins: When you laugh, it triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. These endorphins promote a sense of well-being and can even provide temporary pain relief, making you feel better both physically and emotionally.

Protects the heart: Laughter supports heart health by improving blood flow and enhancing the function of blood vessels. This can help protect against heart disease, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular problems.

Also read | World Laughter Day: How laughing benefits the body

Burns calories and promotes mental health: Laughter can even help you manage your weight. Studies show that laughing for just 10–15 minutes a day can burn up to 40 calories, which could add up over time. Additionally, laughter helps maintain a positive outlook and strengthen mental resilience through difficult times, disappointments, and loss.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.