Smile and Laugh Your Way to Good Health
Everybody looks better when they smile — but beyond appearances, smiling and laughing actually improve your health. When you smile, your brain releases tiny molecules called neuropeptides that help fight off stress. Other neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins are also released. Endorphins act as mild pain relievers, while serotonin serves as a natural antidepressant. According to Chris Norris, smiling and laughing initially raise heart rate, then relax muscles, ultimately lowering heart rate and blood pressure. Smiling is more than an expression — it’s a health booster worth sharing. Now that’s something to smile about.
Laughter triggers the release of endorphins — your body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals. These promote overall well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain. When you laugh, you breathe deeper and take in more oxygen, which stimulates your heart, lungs, and muscles. Quite literally, laughter protects your heart.
Laughter reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and promotes relaxation. It’s scientifically proven — smiling and laughing make you feel better. That’s no joke!
Five Health Benefits of Smiling and Laughing
- Decreases stress — Laughter lowers stress hormones and reduces physical tension throughout your entire body.
- Improves your mood — Smiling releases dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin, elevating your mood and making you happier.
- It makes people around you feel better — Smiling and laughter are contagious. As the saying goes, “Smile and the whole world smiles with you.”
- Strengthens the immune system — The positive emotions from smiling or laughing trigger neuropeptides, which support immune balance and may help your body fight illness.
- Reduces pain — Endorphins released when you smile can temporarily ease aches and minor pain.
LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE!
