There are few things in life better than hearing a child laugh. The sound is food for the soul – and often adults can’t help but to join in and laugh along. And that’s wonderful, because laughter is good for children and adults alike.
Whether a simple chuckle or a rumble from deep in the belly, research shows that laughing has numerous health benefits:
Whether a simple chuckle or a rumble from deep in the belly, research shows that laughing has numerous health benefits:
- Laughter enhances the intake of oxygen-rich air and increases the endorphins that are released by the brain. This makes kids feel good and may even reduce pain.
- Laughter reduces stress and aggression. When children are stressed, upset or lashing out, a good laugh can divert them and provide an outlet for their aggression or anxiety.
- A good laugh can improve mental alertness and help children be more creative.
- Laughter may improve your immune system. Positive thoughts can release neuropeptides that help fight stress and potentially more-serious illnesses.*
- Laughter helps us feel closer and connect with one another. When we laugh together, we feel a common bond.
- Laughter promotes a more restful nights’ sleep.
- Laughter is contagious. It’s hard to keep a straight face when someone near you is “cracking up”.
If you aren’t naturally finding things to laugh about, buy a joke book, watch a funny movie or a cartoon -- or make funny faces. Whether you laugh a little or a laugh a lot, it’s fun, it’s free and it's good for you!
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