Laugh your Cares Away

Laughter’s medicinal powers have been recognized for centuries. The ancient Greeks believed laughter was an essential part of the healing process.  And studies now show that laughter can promote better blood circulation, stimulate digestion, lower blood pressure, and prompt the brain to release endorphins and other compounds that reduce pain. Here are some suggestions you can do:

• Take some time each day to read or listen to something funny – the comics or watch funny YouTube videos.
• Don’t just smile, laugh out loud.
• When confronted by rude people, imagine them wearing nothing but a diaper – they’ll seem less intimidating.
• Try to incorporate good-natured humor in meetings, memos, and conversations.  Humor helps to develop trust, sell ideas, and strengthen relationships.
• Always keep humor upbeat and positive. Laughter generated at someone else’s expense is counter-productive.
• Don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself.
• And remember, he or she who laughs, lasts. 

Used with permission from A Year of Health Hints by Don R Powell, PHD and the American Institute for Preventive Medicine, copyright 2010. www.healthylife.com