Did you know that everybody laughs in almost exactly the same way? Robert Province, a neuroscientist and professor of psychology while observing humans, discovered that when we laugh, we have a short burst of sound about a fifteenth of a second long. If we try changing the rules of laughter, it suddenly doesn’t sound like laughter anymore.

Laughter is similar to a secret love language we all share. It’s a special way we connect and feel joy together. Did you know that laughter does more than just make us happy? It actually helps our minds and hearts stay healthy. Let’s take a closer look at how laughter and humor can make us feel better inside.

Importance of Laughter

1. It lifts our Mood and makes us Feel Good: When we laugh, our brains release special chemicals that make us feel happy. It’s like a tiny party happening inside our heads! These chemicals, called dopamine and endorphins, help lift our moods and make us feel good.
2. It makes us Work Better: Laughter also makes our brains work better. It’s like a workout for our minds! When we laugh, different parts of our brains start talking to each other, helping us think in creative ways. So, not only does it make us feel happy, it also makes our brains super smart!
3. It defeats Stress: Have you ever noticed that after a good laugh, you feel relaxed and happy? That’s because laughter is like a superhero that fights against stress. When we laugh, our bodies chill out, and stress hormones (the things that make us feel worried) take a break.
4. It strengthens our Immune System: It is like a superhero for our immune system. It helps our bodies make more immune cells, the ones that keep us healthy. So, by laughing, we’re not just having fun; we’re also making our bodies stronger! Research also proves that 10 to 15 minutes of daily laughing burns 10 to 40 calories.
5. It helps us Handle Tough Times: Think about a time when you found something funny during a not-so-great moment. It’s like a little light in the darkness, right? Humor is like a special tool that helps us handle tough situations. When we find something funny in a challenging moment, it’s like our minds take a break from feeling upset. Humor is like a friend that helps us see things differently. Instead of feeling really serious, we can laugh a little and feel a bit better. So, next time you’re going through a tough time, try finding something funny—it might just make things a bit easier to handle!

6. It brings People Together: Have you ever noticed how laughter brings people together? When we laugh with others, it’s like we’re sharing a special secret. It helps us feel close to the people around us. It’s not just about the laugh we have in the moment; it’s also about how it helps us make good friends. When we share a laugh, it’s like we’re saying, “We’re in this together!” Laughter makes our friendships stronger and helps us feel like we belong.

In the end, laughter is like a magical song that makes us feel happy and healthy. It’s not just a sound we make when something is funny; it’s a special way we connect with others and ourselves.

So, next time you hear laughter, join in! Whether it’s a big belly laugh or a tiny giggle, know that you’re not just having fun—you’re also giving your mind and heart a little gift. In the song of life, let laughter be the tune that makes your days brighter and your heart lighter!

About Author

Oluwafunmilayo Makinde

Oluwafunmilayo Makinde is a Communication and Language Arts graduate from the University of Ibadan. She is also a creative writer, journalist and a mental health advocate. Funmilayo believes in the power of using creative words to change the world’s belief system and values.

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