Laugh out loud!

One of the major benefits of the small group of which I am a part, is the tremendous laughing that goes on.  Yes we study, pray, sing and do all the normal things, but we also laugh.  And we don't just quietly and "reverently" laugh...we laugh out loud.  Loudly laughing!  We lean back in our chairs, hit the table, snort, bust a gut till our sides hurt...laughing.  Picture 14 grown (mostly 50 something) adults letting loose.

Scripture says, "there is a time to laugh."

Buzzle.com says this about laughter: "Laughter makes it easier for us to cope with different challenges in life. It improves and strengthens our immune system and helps prevent a number of diseases. Laughter therapy can be used to cure several diseases such as hypertension, ulcers, arthritis, stroke, diabetes and even heart diseases. It offers good relaxation and helps you relieve stress and depression."

"Laughing is not just related to facial expressions, but it causes a number of chemical changes within the body. Good hearty laughter helps release enzymes and hormones that are helpful for normal functioning of various organs. This is due to a connection between laughing and stimulation of brain and different glands. Laughter enhances the body to release natural antihistamines. It also activates T-cells, a natural anti-biotic produced in the body. It helps boost the immune system and fight infections. It prevents numerous diseases by strengthening the immune system."

"Laughter reduces the levels of certain hormones, namely cortisol, growth hormone, epinephrine and dopac, which are associated with stress response. Thus it helps relieve stress, depression, anxiety, grief, anger and irritation. Laughing also decreases pain by releasing a hormone, endorphins. It improves our attentiveness, pulse and heart rate."

Anyone ever die from laughing...probably so...but what a way to go see God.  Let the joy of God be experienced by you today and in your relationships.

Comments

[Linda]

You crack me up! ;) Love you!

[Lindsey]

That's interesting because I just read in a parenting magazine that just thinking about/anticipating watching a funny movie reduces stress by up to 70%. It's amazing the way that can affect us.