“A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.”
Proverbs 17:22
The reason why such advice makes it into ancient books of wisdom is because that advice has proven to work. This particular bit of wisdom, that laughter can benefit the mind and body, has some medical support to back it. For example, WebMD says laughter decreases stress and blood pressure and even burns calories. The Mayo Clinic says it increases the immune system and decreases physical pain.
A couple of months ago a stay-at-home-mom posted a video for her friends and it went viral. It depicts her wearing a Star Wars‘ Chewbacca Mask and laughing her fanny off. The video is the most viewed post ever on Facebook with 140 million views. Every time I watch this video — and it has been more than once — I laugh along with her. Her laughter is infectious. The science says that when we laugh, our brain releases endorphins. I am not surprised that so many people keep watching this: it is good medicine.
So when you’re feeling a bit down, physically and emotionally, surround yourself with humor. Watch comedies, hang out with your funny friends — everyone has a funny friend– or find a goofy video like this and watch it. As Chewbacca Mom says “It’s the simple joys.”
Here’s the video if you are one of the few who haven’t seen it. Watch the whole 4 minutes. I am — again.
ljg (c) 2016
Inspired by the Letter H at the Soul Food Cafe
Miss Pelican's Perch 