CLEVELAND, OH (CLEVELAND CLINIC) - Today is National Let’s Laugh Day. Did you know laughter offers both physical and mental health benefits?
“There's actually some connections to stress relief but also a long-term impact of improving your immune system,” said Kia-Rai Prewitt, PhD, psychologist. “So, when you have reduced stress, that could have positive effects and whether or not you get sick.”
Other health benefits of laughing include increasing oxygen in your body and increasing blood flow, which in turn can help your heart. Laughter can strengthen social bonds, too. For example, if you’re meeting someone new, you may use humor to break the ice and make them feel more comfortable.
Speaking of humor, is one kind better than the other? Dr. Prewitt said not really, unless, of course, it’s at the expense of someone else. Everyone is going to find different topics or situations funny; what matters is that they bring you joy.
“There are so many different ways to laugh,” said Dr. Prewitt. “It's just important to take a break. I've always emphasized self-care, and one way to engage in self-care is to allow yourself to have fun. It's really a good way to disconnect, but also to reset yourself.”
She notes that there is a time and place for laughter. If you find yourself laughing at inappropriate moments, it may be worth talking with a therapist to understand why.
