Yes it is fun to have a hearty laugh but do you know it has medical benefits. Just like the apple a hearty laugh a day may also keep the doctor away! You must have realised that your whole body gets relaxed after a laugh it is because it relaxes your mind as well as muscles. This is because certain feel good chemicals (endorphins ) are released from the body.

Benefits of Laughter:

• It helps your immune system : Immunity system (system that fights against diseases) gets a boost by laughing, your heart is protected , your lungs expand while laughing and blood circulation increases and hence you tend to live longer. A study done in Norway on cancer patients showed those having a good sense of humour outlived those without it.
• It helps you burn your calories: Calorie conscious ladies you can burn up to 40 calories after laughing for 10 to 15 minutes. What a great way to lose some fat!

• It reduces pain: Laughing decreases pain. This is because of the feel good chemicals (endorphins ) that are natural opium like molecules which act as natural pain killers.
• It helps reduce depression & increase optimism: Laughter is very good for your mental health. It stops distress producing thoughts from entering your mind. The body gets recharged and relaxed after a good laugh. A hearty laughter draws one closer to the other person. In addition laughter helps diffuse anger and a tense situation, improves mood , adds joy and zest to life. Humor helps you keep a positive, optimistic outlook through difficult situations, disappointments, and loss.

Last but not the least laughter is fun, free of cost and endears you to others.