Did you know laughter offers both physical and mental health benefits?
“There’s actually some connections to stress relief but also a long-term impact of improving your immune system,” said psychologist Dr. Kia-Rai Prewitt. “So, when you have reduced stress, that could have positive effects and whether or not you get sick.”
Other health benefits of laughing include increasing oxygen to your body and also increasing blood flow, which in turn can help your heart.
Laughing can strengthen social bonds, too.
For example, if you’re meeting someone new, you may use humor to break the ice and make them feel more comfortable.
Speaking of humor, is one kind better than another?
Prewitt said not really, unless, of course, it’s at the expense of someone else.
Everyone is going to find different topics or situations funny, what matters is that it brings you joy.
“There are so many different ways to laugh,” said Prewitt. “It’s just important to take a break. I’ve always emphasized self-care and one way to engage in self-care is to allow yourself to have fun. It’s really a good way to disconnect, but also to reset yourself.”
She notes there is a time and place for laughter.
If you find yourself laughing at inappropriate moments, it might be worth talking with a therapist to understand why.