7 scientific reasons why laughter is the best medicine

Endorphins are the chemicals that make us feel good and happy. According to the recent studies, laughing activates our opioid receptors, which release endorphins to the brain. Everything depends on the number of such receptors, which is different in everyone. If laughter makes you feel much happier, be sure it's in your nature.

At least for short periods of time, laughing can boost the release of serotonin, which helps us to maintain a balanced mood, deal with stress and sleep better. In fact, the effects of laughter are similar to those of most antidepressants.

Laughing is actually a good cardio workout: it makes your blood flow stronger, burn calories and train your heart muscles. When you laugh, you improve your blood vessels and heart rate. It can be very helpful for people who are not able to do much physical activity.

Everything is connected: when you are stressed, your blood pressure increases, which can be really dangerous. Laughter can be quite helpful here as well. Many studies show a reduction of blood pressure after laughing, and if you laugh a lot on a regular basis, you can see a stable decrease and reduce your risk of stroke and heart attack.

When you laugh, you exercise more than 20 facial muscles. Laughter also increases blood supply to your face, which makes your skin glow, help you avoid wrinkles and get rid of puffiness.

When you laugh, you help your organism fight infections and allergies. Laughing activates immune system cells called T-cells and increases their effectiveness. So, when the next flu season begins, you may consider trying laughter therapy just to be on the safe side.

People who laugh a lot usually tend to have a positive outlook on life. Happy people fight diseases more easily than those who are more negative. Laughing helps people avoid depression and anxiety, which is incredibly important for our general sense of well-being. Smile and laugh every time you want, appreciate every moment, try to always see the best – and stay healthy!