The Nutritional value of Laughter

“Your sense of humor is one of the most powerful tools you have to make certain that your daily mood and emotional state support good health.” Did you know that laughter is contagious? It is said that the sound of laughter is far more contagious than any cough, sniffle, or sneeze. Laughter binds people together, increases happiness and intimacy. It also triggers healthy physical changes in the body. Humour and laughter strengthen your immune system, boost your energy, diminish pain, and protect you from the damaging effects of stress. It is the only medicine that is priceless, fun, free, and easy to use. Laughter is a strong medicine for the mind and body. Research has shown how laughter neutralizes stress, pain, and conflict. Laughter removes that strain from the heart. Laughter improves the function of blood vessels and increases blood flow, which can help protect you against a heart attack and other cardiovascular problems. As the muscles in the face relax, the burdens from the body are expelled in laughter. While the burdens are being expelled, connections are formed, and there is an increase in the level of awareness. The ability to laugh easily characterizes laughter as an excellent disease that everyone should catch. Students play a game at the NCU gymnatorium Laugher is good for your health. It relaxes the whole body, boosts the immune system, and releases endorphins. Laughter decreases the production of stress hormones and increases the production of immune cells and infection fighting anti-bodies. The release of endorphins has been shown to promote an overall sense of well-being and even temporarily relieve pain. Before you leave the house each day savour the lasting effects of laughter. While getting dressed; laugh at yourself. Don’t always take things so seriously. Surround yourself with little reminders that brighten your day. Watch five minutes of cartoon, or just take an animation with you. Keep things in perspective. Yes, times are hard, but don’t overdo it. Most things in life are beyond our control, but it’s not the end of the world. Don’t try to take it all by yourself. God himself encourages us to “take your yoke upon me, and I will give you rest”. The Department of Social Development promotes a healthy lifestyle for Northern Caribbean University students by providing an environment free from stress. The Social Development and Sporting Activities Department fosters the interaction of students by hosting karaoke nights, socials, bon fires, concerts, and domino tournaments to engage socialization amongst the population. Mikki Clarke