Laughter, how does it affect us?

Did you realise that laughter is directly related to our health? It is also a known fact that as we age we laugh less and less.

Why is this? There are many obvious reasons, such as world news and media, who love to dwell on the serious side of life. Rarely do we open a newspaper or turn on a Television where we are inundated with good news. The Human race seems set on catching every bit of news, trivial or otherwise, whether we want it or not.

We know that stress and tension are contributing factors to ill health so rather than feeding the stress and tension why don’t we concentrate on laughter as a cheap health benefit. This can be fun, relaxing and extremely healthy.

Why is laughter so beneficial to us? It’s our in built natural defensive mechanism to help fight against stress and anxiety.

Just take a few minutes to ask yourself these questions.

• What does laughter mean to you?

• Do you feel you laugh enough?

• Do you laugh every day?

• What makes you laugh?

• How do you laugh? Is it controlled laugh or is it a hearty belly laugh?

The dictionary meaning of Laughter, suggests that is making an explosive vocal sound characteristically expressing amusement, mirth and joy, it is a means of entertainment. At no stage did they mention the health benefits.

Studies have shown that laughter can lower blood pressure, reduce our stress related hormones (epinephrine & cortisol), increase muscle flexion and boost our immune function. It’s multi- vitamin that you don’t have to swallow. Laughter also release endorphins our bodies natural painkiller and this can all result in a sense of calmness and general well being.

One overseas study suggests that 1 minute of laughing is equivalent to 6 minutes on the rowing machine at the gym. (Bring on the laughter). Laughter has also been described as an internal jogging exercise, said to be the best massage for all intestines, improving blood supply and helps to regulate the bowel.

How does laughter do all this? Apparently a good hearty belly laugh showed physiological signs that were the total opposite to what the body experienced when stressed. This allows the immune systems natural resources to come into play, doing what it wants to do by fighting off and defending the body against the disease Laughter is also a great aerobic activity for the body where it can improve respiration and lung function. This helps to work the diaphragm and allows the body to increase its ability to take in more oxygen, therefore allowing the body to distribute oxygen more freely to all organs, systems and glands.

Some experts say that used in conjunction with other health treatments provided by your health care professional you can reduce pain and improve the body’s natural healing process.

So make laughter a part of your daily health routine. Wouldn’t it be great if we could incorporate 15-30minutes of laughter per day to help keep the doctor away?

Good health and Best Wishes for the Festive Season !!!!

Marita

REIKI 1 Courses in 2010

I am now able to offer Reiki training courses of a Wednesday evening. Places are still available for the next Reiki 1 Course and they are scheduled for Wednesday evenings from 7:00pm to 10:00pm, on 24th February and the 3rd, 10th and 17th of March, 2010 For details please contact Marita on 9801 5201.

Bookings:- Please contact Marita or fill in the online form to request a Reiki course outline. Please note places are limited. One-on-one and group bookings are available.

Venue: Suite 9/ 249 Stud Road Wantirna.

The Sole Response website and Blog can be located by clicking on the following link www.soleresponse.com

Please have a look, your feedback is most welcome and greatly appreciated.

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Thank you

Sole Response Reflexology & Reiki located at:-

•Suite 9, 249 Stud Road, Wantirna. Ph 03 9801 5201, Mobile 0425 735 581

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