"The Laughter Prescription: Boosting Health One Chuckle at a Time"

Laughter doesn't require preparation like a speech; it emanates spontaneously from within and isn't something you practice beforehand.

Laughter is the typically involuntary movement of facial muscles, especially the lips, and the entire body, accompanied by a distinctive expression in the eyes. 

It signifies merriment, satisfaction, or derision, often accompanied by a sonorous and interrupted release of air from the lungs.

Here is a quick question: when was the last time you had a good laugh? Can you recall?

You may feel there's little to laugh about given the challenges and hardships around. However, the truth is, that external circumstances shouldn't hinder your laughter.

In tough times, consider taking a moment to pause and find joy in laughter.

Find joy in laughter, for it resides within your spirit. Laugh as a manifestation of being a child of God.

Cultivate laughter, just as the Bible states in Job 8:21, "He will yet fill your mouth with laughing, And your lips with rejoicing."

This passage signifies the joy and laughter bestowed by the Lord, providing a source of strength to face challenges and obstacles with hope and excitement.

I shared with my sister the amusing details of my participation in an online program, and the experience was so comical that she couldn't resist moving from one seat to another. Our laughter continued unabated after I recounted the entire episode.

The realization struck me after recounting the scenario to my sister. Despite feeling unhappy due to recent events, engaging in conversation and laughter made me forget the prior concerns. In the end, I felt lighter and better. Laughter has a way of giving your body a positive boost through a good chuckle.

When you laugh, research suggests several physiological responses:

1. Stimulation of heart and lungs: Increased heart rate and temporary rise in blood pressure.

2. Deepened breathing and enhanced blood oxygenation.

3. Release of endorphins, natural painkillers, and increased production of immune cells.

4. Burning of calories – approximately seventy-eight times more than at rest.

5. "Internal jogging" – the movement of the diaphragm, facial muscles, and internal organs.

6. Post-laughter relaxation – muscles and arteries relax, potentially easing pain.

7. Lowering of blood pressure and pulse dropping below normal, promoting overall well-being.

8. Some researchers propose benefits for digestion as a result of these physiological changes.

“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine; but a broken spirit drieth the bones.” Proverbs 17 vs 22

“ A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance; but by the sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.” Proverbs 15 vs 13.

I recommend that you read this book, “ Laugh Yourself Healthy,” by Charles and Frances Hunter to learn more about the secret of laughter.

©️ Oluwadamilola Ajayi.