I heard a good one the other day that I couldn’t wait to share with my readers.
A patient says, "Doctor, I have a ringing in my ears. What should I do?" The doctor replies, "Don't answer!" Did you laugh?Laughter has a ton of great health benefits! A good laugh can help:
- Elevate mood
- Boost immune system
- Improve brain functioning
- Instant relaxation
- Decrease levels of stress hormones
- Increase levels of good hormones
- Increase blood flow to the heart, strengthening the artery walls and lowering blood pressure
A study at the University of Maryland Medical Center found that laughter is linked to healthy blood vessels. It causes the vessels to expand, increasing blood flow. Why is that good? In fact, it may reduce the chances of a heart attack and cardiovascular disease (as will exercising, not smoking and eating foods low in saturated fat). What a fun way to help reduce heart disease, the number one killer in the United States!
Another great thing the study reported was that the way the blood vessels respond when you laugh is similar to the way they respond with aerobic activity. It is estimated that hearty laughter can burn calories equivalent to several minutes on the rowing machine or the exercise bike. But you can’t replace laughing with the recommended thirty minutes of exercise, three times a week. (I know that’s what you were thinking!)
“Where am I supposed to get humor from to get the great benefits of laughing?”
Television sitcoms are a great way. My favorite sitcoms are The Office, Seinfeld, Friends and, of course, The Simpsons. You could also check out some of these great jokes. I’m sure some of those will get you laughing!
Tell me some of your best jokes. I love a good laugh!