A few days ago on linkedin I commented on the post of a brilliant and inspiring young woman, Hélène Diep . Her post was entitled “My little one told me “Mommy, you’re happy!” What do I do? I adopt positive thinking…” in reference to an article in Marie-claire magazine “How and why adopt positive thinking?” (Article in french)

My comment was simple, thanking her for such a positive post to get the week off to a good start. What’s more, I shared a link to an article I’d just published on smiling, entitled “Smile, smile all the time! Happiness will come”

Another very interesting comment was left by Philippe Thierry, “You’re right about laughter. What’s more, the brain doesn’t know the difference between a natural laugh and a forced laugh. So I can even laugh at nothing and that will also have beneficial effects on my psychological state”.

This comment caught my attention and I became interested in laughter in order to find the studies on the subject that I’m sharing with you in this new post.

Indeed, recent studies have shown that laughter and smiling have numerous health benefits. Whether genuine or simulated, laughter triggers a series of physiological reactions that can help improve mood, reduce stress and even boost the immune system.

Effects on the brain and body

According to a Stanford University study, laughter activates brain regions involved in the production of endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones (1). Endorphins provide a feeling of happiness and help to alleviate pain.

What’s more, a study published in the American Journal of Medical Sciences showed that laughter reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol in the body (2). This reduction in stress can help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation and improve overall health.

Simulated laughter vs. genuine laughter

The benefits of laughter are not limited to genuine laughter. In fact, the brain can’t tell the difference between simulated and natural laughter. An Oxford University study found that laughter, whether genuine or simulated, triggers an increase in endorphin levels (3).

Laughter yoga

Recognition of the positive effects of laughter has given rise to a new form of exercise called “Laughter Yoga”. Founded by Dr Madan Kataria, this movement encourages people to laugh voluntarily as a form of exercise (4). Participants often report improved mood and reduced stress after sessions.

Conclusion

Whether sharing a good joke, watching comedy or practicing laughter yoga, laughter is a powerful tool for promoting health and well-being. More than just an expression of joy, it can be a valuable means of improving health and quality of life.

References:

1. Stanford University (2003). Humor causes brain to release ‘feel good’ chemical, researcher finds.

2. Berk, L. S., et al. (1989). Neuroendocrine and stress hormone changes during mirthful laughter. The American Journal of the Medical Sciences.

3. Dunbar, R. I., et al. (2012). Social laughter is correlated with an elevated pain threshold. Proceedings of the Royal Society.

4. Kataria, M. (2011). Laugh for no reason. Penguin Books India.