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20 Mar 2008 04:10 PM

Laugh at Stress

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

Studies have shown that laughter is a GREAT way to deal with stress.

In the short term:

• Laughter enhances your oxygen intake. That in turn stimulates your heart, your lungs, and your muscles.
• Laughter makes your brain release endorphins -- happy chemicals.
• Laughter can ease digestion problems.
• Laughter can stimulate blood circulation, which can help reduce some of the physical symptoms of stress.

Laughter also activates -- and then cools down -- your body's stress response. It can rev up your heartbeat and boost your blood pressure, leaving you feeling more relaxed as things calm down again.

In the long term:

• Laughter can boost your immune system. Stress can lead to chemical reactions in the body that decrease immunity. The good feeling that comes with a good laugh can encourage neuropeptide production -- helping your body fight disease.
• Laughter can relieve pain -- research shows that a good laugh can cause the body to produce natural painkillers.
• Laughter can ease a difficult situation. A recent study of ER nurses found that those who use humor have more job satisfaction and greater feelings of accomplishment than those who stay serious.

So the next time you're feeling the weight of stress on your shoulders, take a break for something that makes you laugh. Play silly games with the kids, call a funny friend, or pop your favorite comedy into the DVD player.

It's okay to find the humor in your own life, but humor at the expense of others isn't the best choice to make you feel better. Stay away from hurtful humor and stick with innocent fun! Keep funny pictures or comics on the walls at work or at home -- you can even stick one under your car's sun visor! (Just don't read and drive.)

If you're feeling stressed right now, give it a try. Even a forced laugh is a good start. Make those cheeks smile and let out a laugh... see how it feels!

Learn more about Aimee Amodio

Aimee is a fiction writer... dog lover... music lover...

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