Recession Proof yourself with Humor and Laughter



Posted: Tuesday, February 17, 2009

by Gerry Hopman
humor-laughter.com

Too many people these days suffer from chronic seriousitis. It shows up in the stern faces, furrowed brows, bad hair days, up-tight behavior, and the loss of perspective.

We need to lighten up! We take ourselves way too serious with disastrous effects to our personal health and wellness. We need to recognize that 'laughter is the best medicine.'

What most of us don't realize is that by not laughing, we miss out on many health benefits. A good laugh massages face, shoulders and stomach muscles, reduces blood pressure, increases oxygen flow, boosts immune system, and causes a reduction in stress-inducing chemicals.

Research has shown that laughter works faster on our body than Valium or vodka. The benefits from a good belly laugh can last up to 24 hours. Dr. William Fry, a laughter researcher found that 30 seconds of hearty laughter equals a three minute physical workout on a rowing machine.

You don't even need a reason to laugh. Even fake laughter is good for you. Thousands of 'Laughter Clubs' have sprung up all over the world practicing fake laughter sessions with the same health benefits as derived from real laughter,

With the downturn of the economy and the increase of personal stresses, it is important to remember that humor and laughter are powerful stress busters. It is impossible to be stressed when laughing. Laughter provides us with an instant vacation from our stress feelings.

Humor and laughter clear our minds, so that we can think more clearly and therefor become more creative in resolving our problems. Humor helps us cope with difficult times and situations. It is a known fact that there was more humor during World War Two than at any other time in history.

Humor and laughter help to reduce conflict and facilitate easier communication. They quickly help to lower barriers and facilitate connection between people, a tremendous asset for people caught up in the negative effects of the economic downturn.

Humor and laughter are available at no cost and are accessible to each and everyone of us, unfortunately they have become the most underrated and undervalued tools in our society.

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