Laughter is good for the soul

by Edith Lovett

"Laughter lowers the blood pressure, reduces pain, relaxes our muscles, and burns calories. Laughter enhances our mental health by improving our mood, relieves feelings of anger and frustration, and helps reduces tension. Laughter also increases our energy, inspires hope, and adds joy to our life."

"Many social benefits come from laughter. It makes you and others feel good to laugh. It will change your behavior and strengthens relationships with others. A good laugh will create joy, vitality, and resilience. It helps heal resentment and decreases tension. Norman Cousins, a journalist and a professor, states in his book that ten minutes of laughter results in two hours of pain free sleep."

"Spend time with joyful people. Associate with those people who help you see the bright side of life and laugh a lot. When possible, avoid those people who are always negative and make you sad. Laughter is contagious. Try it and see."

"At the end of the day, and the beginning of a new day, count your blessings. Focus on the positive aspects of your life and make a list about things for which you are grateful. Do not take yourself too seriously. Remind yourself to lighten up. Laughing makes life more enjoyable. If you find it hard to laugh or enjoy life, talk to your doctor as something more serious may be going on."

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