Laugh For Stress Relief: True Or False?

Laugh For Stress Relief

Key takeaways

  • When stress lasts for a long time, it starts hurting our health.
  • Laughter reduces the levels of cortisol by increasing the levels of endorphins.
  • Laughter is contagious, bringing you closer to people, and helping you build better and stronger relationships.
  • Laughter is free, easily accessible, and rewarding in many ways.
  • Laughter can and does change your life for good.

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  1. Louie D, et al. The Laughter Prescription: A Tool for Lifestyle Medicine. Am J Lifestyle Med. 2016 Jun 23;10(4):262-267.
  2. Stress relief from laughter? It's no joke - Mayo Clinic

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Frequently asked questions

Get the information you need.

Laughter reduces stress hormones such as cortisol and stimulates the release of endorphins, the body's natural "feel-good" chemicals that make you feel relaxed and uplifted.

Nervous laughter happens automatically in stressful or uncomfortable situations. It’s a way the body tries to cope with tension or anxiety.

Yes. Laughing can stimulate the immune system, increasing antibodies and activating cells that fight infections, keeping the body healthier.

Even a few minutes of laughter daily can improve mood, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being when practiced regularly.

Laughter exercises involve intentional laughter paired with activity or deep breathing. They can be done alone or in groups to lift mood and relieve stress.

Laughter therapy can improve mood, ease stress, and support mental and physical health by making laughter a consistent part of life.

Laughter is a powerful natural stress reliever, but it’s not a substitute for medical care. It should be used alongside professional care as part of a stress management routine.

Laughter yoga blends voluntary laughter with yogic breathing to energize the body and mind. Start with simple claps and deep breaths, gradually build up to hearty laughter, and if possible, practice in groups to amplify the joy.