by Emilie West

Created on: November 18, 2009

Laughter is a mechanism everyone has. Laughter is part of the human vocabulary. There are hundreds of thousands of languages and dialects, but everyone speaks laughter in pretty much the same way. Everyone can laugh. Babies have the ability to laugh before they even speak. Laughter is used as a sign of presence, can be very contagious and some say that laughter cures all. But how exactly does it benefit us?

Laughter is usually caused by sensations like joy or humor. However, there are more causes to laugher, like relief. Not only does laughter make us feel better, solid scientific research demonstrates that laughter offers actual health benefits to our bodies and minds.

It is said to lower blood-pressure, strengthen cardiovascular functions and improve circulation, so laughing is like boosting up your veins and helping out your blood vessels. It also increases muscle flexion. Furthermore, it gives a boost to your respiratory system and even raises levels of certain cells producing disease-fighting proteins and disease-destroying antibodies, giving great aid to the immune system.

Leaving physical profits aside, there's also a great mental gain. Laughter reduces stress-hormones and triggers the release of endorphins in the brain, working as a natural pain killer. But most importantly, it gives a general sense of well-being; it makes one feel really good.

Socially, laughing and smiling increases attractiveness and indicates positivity and acceptance in a group. It clarifies one's intentions and provides emotional context to a conversation.

Perhaps we could smile away soreness? Laugh out busy and stressful days? Giggle in the face of flu and other diseases, and have that be more than just a silly expression? Laugh more, live longer. That's what they say, and it doesn't sound like bad advice, since laughter reliefs of emotional and physical pain, stress and helps us cope with the difficulties in life.

Laughter can have no harmful effects; it can bring on tears and muscle pains, but none of these things can actually hurt a person. It's all experienced as a good thing, because of the large amount of positivity your entire body radiates after a good laughing fit.

Outside and in, nothing can make you feel entirely as good as laughter. It's the natural vitamin that's makes you healthier, more resistant, flexible, stress-free, happy and very, very attractive. So turn that frown upside down and have a good laugh every day. It will get you through the day.

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