5 surprising reasons why you should laugh everyday and it's not just for your mental health

Dad jokes, bloopers, sketches, people falling down, funny videos online... Each person is unique and can start laughing for various reasons. Humour focuses on highlighting the comical or absurd nature of reality and some people have really found a way to make the most of it!

Comedians are creating more and more stand-up comedy specials to make their audience laugh and forget their struggles, at least for a little while. It has never been easier to access funny videos online, so take advantage of it! Laughter has many positive effects on your health, so let's find out which ones.

Why laughing is good for your health

Laughing is extremely good for your health. There are several things you can do to make yourself laugh and release some of your built-up everyday pressure. Whether you're watching funny videos online, or chatting with the funniest person in your friend group when you're feeling down, laughter can make you feel better and heal your inside wounds.

Who has never been in a rather embarrassing situation and ended up laughing at it to lighten the mood? Laughter is a real weapon for strengthening bonds and bringing people together. Even if you have a laugh that you find embarrassing, laughter is contagious. So laugh out loud and share it with others, because it can only do you good.

According to CannedLaughter, laughing actually helps you live longer. As it is impossible to be pessimistic while you're laughing, it literally forces you to have an optimistic outlook on life. EverydayHealth wellness advisor and fellow at the American Institute of Stress, Heidi Hanna, said:

Laughter is the physical manifestation of finding something funny, and it can help to reduce inflammation and stress hormones, improve circulation, and enhance the immune system.

Read more:This Is What Makes You Laugh Most, According To Your Star Sign

5 good reasons you should laugh everyday

1. Laughing increases your blood flow. When you are laughing, your body releases endorphins, a pleasure hormone. When your body is producing endorphins, you cannot feel pain, so laughing can also act as a painkiller. It also lowers your blood pressure, thus reducing risks of a stroke or heart problems.
2. Laughing counts as exercice. It has the same benefits as a cardio work-out! A good belly laugh moves your diaphragm, contracts your abs, and leaves your muscles more relaxed once you're done.
3. Laughing boosts your immune system. Laughter helps your body produce more T-cells, which fight infection. It also reduces two hormones that appear when your body is dealing with stress. Being exposed to these hormones for a long time can cause depression, anxiety, weight gain, and increase your risks of developing heart diseases.
4. Social cohesion: laughter can bring people closer together. A good laugh is a display of positive emotions, and emotions are meant to be shared with others. Laughing with someone makes you bond faster.
5. Laughing has long-lasting positive effects. It has been proven that laughing for at least 15 minutes a day can have long-lasting positive effects on your heart and your mind.

Natalie Christine Dattilo, a clinical psychologist and instructor at Harvard Medical School, told EverydayHealth:

Just a moment of laughter can allow us to think more clearly and creatively and strengthen a sense of connection with others

This article has been adapted from Oh!MyMag FR.

Read more:The strange reason why people cover their mouths when they laugh

Sources used:

The Heart Foundation: 5 REASONS YOU SHOULD LAUGH EVERYDAY

CannedLaughter: 10 Benefits of Laughter and why we should laugh on a daily basis

SimpleGirl: 5 Reasons to Laugh More

EverydayHealth: How to Laugh More Every Single Day — and Why It’s So Good for You