Humor
encompasses any human communication which makes people laugh or feel
happy.
It is the ability or quality of people, objects or situations to
summon feelings of amusement in other people.
Who doesn't enjoy a great laugh whenever possible?
Laughter is a great healer and one of the most positive and
rejuvenating human emotions.
Not only does it strengthen our immune system, it releases
beneficial hormones that refresh and revitalize us, calm our nerves,
reduce tension and stimulate creativity.
Many researchers including Drs. Lee Berk and Stanley Tan have
studied the therapeutic benefits of laughter and humor.
There have been published studies that show laughing:
lowers blood pressure
reduces stress hormones, such as epinephrine and cortisol which
constrict blood vessels
improves cardiovascular health by increasing the body's ability
to use oxygen
reduces anxiety, relaxes muscles
strengthens the immune system
releases endorphins, the body's natural painkillers
Apart from the significant medical benefits of laughter, all of us
enjoy having a good laugh and we enjoy being around people who make us
laugh.
People who can laugh at themselves or at their situation are
usually more resilient
when problems arise. Because they are able to see the lighter side of
a difficulty, they are better able to put it in perspective.
Laughter can release negative tensions both physically and
psychologically. It is a wonderful natural sedative.