· It reduces the levels of stress hormones epinephrine and cortisol.

2. Laughter strengthens the immune system

The immune system is important in maintaining

good health by keeping infections, allergies and cancers at bay:

· Recent research into the effects of laughter by

Dr. Lee S. Berk, Professor at Loma Linda

University, California, USA, demonstrates that

laughter will increase the count of natural killer

cells (NK cells - a type of white cell) and antibody levels.

· Laughter therapy helps to increase antibodies

(Immunoglobulin A) in the mucous of the nose and respiratory passages.

3. Laughter is anti-ageing

· It tones facial muscles and expressions.

· Laughter causes an increase in blood supply to

the face, which is why some people look

flushed. This nourishes the skin and makes it glow.

· People look younger and more fun when they laugh!

4. Laughter is aerobic exercise

Laughter stimulates heart and blood circulation and

is equivalent to any other standard aerobic exercise.

· Dr. William Fry, Standford University, USA

claims one minute of laughter is equal to 10

minutes on the rowing machine.

· The singular benefit almost everybody derives

is a sense of well-being because more oxygen

is taken in during laughter.

· It is an exercise regime suitable for all, including

people confined to a bed or a wheelchair.

5. Laughter is internal jogging

Laughter massages internal organs by enhancing

the blood supply and increasing their efficiency.

This is especially good for proper bowel movement.

· Laughter exercises the abdominal muscles and

helps to improve muscle tone.

6. Laughter is a Natural Pain Killer

Laughter increases the levels of endorphins – the

body’s natural pain killers. Norman Cousins, an

American journalist who was suffering from an

incurable disease of the spine, benefited from

laughter therapy in a situation when all painkillers

were ineffective.

· Endorphins released as a result of laughter may

help in reducing the intensity of pain in those

suffering from arthritis, spondylitis and muscular

spasms of the body.

7. Laughter can control high blood pressure

Laughter helps to control blood pressure by

reducing the release of stress-related hormones.

· Experiments have demonstrated that a 10-

minute laughter session leads to a reduction of

10-20 mm in blood pressure.

8. Laughter can help dump depression and

anxiety

The stress and strain of modern life takes a heavy

toll on the human mind and body.

· Better sleep

· Reduced depression. Some people claim they

can manage without prescribed anti-depressant

pills and tranquillizers if they laugh 10 mts. every day.

9. Laughter Alleviates Bronchitis and Asthma

Laughter improves lung capacity and oxygen levels

in the blood.

· Laughter Club members report a marked

reduction in the frequency of asthma attacks.

10. Laughter just makes you feel good

Laugh and the world laughs with you. How you react to life is up to you. Live life laughing!

From Dr. Madan Kataria, founder of the International Laughter Movement www.laughteryoga.org