According to a growing body of
research, laughter may have therapeutic value, and it is now used as part of a
mind/body approach to help people cope with something as serious as receiving cancer
treatments. At the Cancer Treatment
Centers of America, they endorse laughter therapy as a way for patients to “use
and enjoy laughter as a tool for healing.”
Citing a large Norwegian study, Scientific American writes that “women
with a strong sense of humor were found to live longer in spite of illness, especially
cardiovascular disease and infection.” The
same study showed that men with a sense of humor appeared to be protected
against infection. The results were
most notable in those fighting cancer.
HelpGuide.org, a trusted guide to
mental health and wellness, explains that a good laugh relaxes the whole body
and that the effects can last up to 45 minutes.
Laughter also helps to decrease stress hormones and increase immune
cells and infection-fighting antibodies, which can improve a person’s
resistance to disease.
Other changes that occur when we laugh
include: triggering the release of endorphins (our natural feel-good chemicals
that can temporarily relieve pain), increasing blood flow, improving the
function of blood vessels, and burning calories. Some studies show laughter may improve mental
functions as well as help us to sleep better, diffuse anger, and produce a
general sense of well-being.
MorningStar
at Jordan could not agree more about the many benefits of
laughter. We are proud of the fact that
our residential community is a true home that is distinguished by compassion,
dignity and lots of good old-fashion laughter.
We know how to have fun and residents and staff alike enjoy a
range of activities, special events and outings. Please visit our website to learn more about our
exceptional assisted living and memory
care facility.
MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care at
Jordan represents the very best in senior living with our distinct mission
statement of “to honor, to serve, to beautiful, serene setting by creating a
foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with
a felt calling to serve. Please contact us to set up a tour to see firsthand
the area’s finest assisted living and memory care facility.
scientificamerican.com/article/laugh-lots-live-longer/
helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/laughter-is-the-best-medicine.htm
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