Health Benefits of Laughter

Years ago when the world was still a fun place, our Television sets were our source of laughter. We had good and sound programmes that helped us to wind down after a hectic day at the office. We looked towards the evenings we can share laughter with our families watching staple comedy movies like The Gods Must Be Crazy, Beverly Hills Cop, The Blue Brothers and the like. These were the days of family movies; meaning that even toddlers could enjoy the fun with the rest of the family.

 Sadly, that world is gone forever. We are now in the twilight zone where demons now control virtually all entertainment industries. They dictate the tune and all sane minded persons must find alternative way of catching fun with the family. What does this have to do with laughter? Personally, I think satan is not a fan of it for the simple fact that God gave us the ability to laugh. That is why the devil is stealing our laughter through depressive programmes on telly and demon-inspired movies in cinema houses and the social media.

It is often said that laughter is the best medicine. I think this is drawn from Scripture, Proverbs 17:22 to be exact – “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Therefore, laughter is a gift from God! It must be because God laughs (Psalm 58:9; Psalm 2:4 and Psalm 37:13). So, what are the health benefits of laughter? According to Cleveland Clinic, United States of America, activating the parasympathetic nervous system through laughter can be a boon for the whole body.

The Clinic explained that sharing fun times and laughs with friends and family (or even alone watching a funny movie or ridiculous cat/dog videos or whatever tickles one’s fancy) lowers stress levels. Of course, laughter also strengthens social bonds and increases our energy levels. The stress reduction enhances heart health as it counters bad cholesterol that causes inflammation in this important organ. Other benefits of laughter are reflected in the pictures below.