Can laughter really help us heal? Anecdotal evidence and some studies seem to point in that direction. Scientists are still investigating, but why wait for them to figure it out? Just yuck it up. It certainly cannot hurt.
Laughter is a powerful coping mechanism that you rely on when you need to lighten your mood. The health benefits associated with laughter are also convincing enough to give this free treatment a try.
Researchers have found that laughter may:
If you're looking for ways to start laughing it up, consider these methods:
So, the next time you feel ill, add a little laughter to your treatment plan. It may help ease your pain.
RESOURCES:
Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor
http://www.aath.org/
Mental Health America
http://www.nmha.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Mental Health Association
http://www.cmha.ca/
Mental Health
Health Canada
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/mental/index-eng.php
References:
Create joy and satisfaction. Mental Health America website. Available at: http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/go/live-your-life-well/joy. Accessed September 25, 2012.
Laughter is the best medicine. HelpGuide.org website. Available at: http://www.helpguide.org/life/humor_laughter_health.htm. Accessed September 25, 2012.
Last reviewed September 2012 by Brian Randall, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
