Hello and happy Wednesday! Today’s blog asks, how is your day going so far? Did you wake up on the wrong side of the bed still tired and a bit grouchy? Perhaps you got a little low spirited when you discovered you still have two days until the weekend. Stick with me for a few minutes and see if I can help elevate your mood a bit.
DO YOU RECALL?
Do you recall the last time you laughed? I don’t mean that perfunctory little chuckle. I mean the kind of laughter when you cry, double over, stomp your foot, slap your knee and snort to the point where you are unable to catch your breath. If you don’t recall, then it is high time you find something to laugh about. Studies show laughter actually has health benefits!
A BIT OF COMIC RELIEF…
Are you aware that 250 lbs. here on Earth is 94.5 lbs. on Mercury? No, I’m not fat. I’m just not on the right planet.
Probably the worst thing you can hear when you’re wearing a bikini is “Good for you!”
Do I lose when the officer says papers and I say scissors?”
Why do dogs always race to the door then the doorbell rings? It’s hardly ever for them.
LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE
There is evidence that laughter can do good things for us. Scientists tell us that laughter can lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones and increase muscle flexion. It increases the circulation of antibodies in the blood stream and makes us more resistant to infection.
HARD EVIDENCE
New evidence finds that laughter helps your blood vessels function better. It acts on the inner lining of blood vessels, called the endothelium, causing vessels to relax and expand increasing blood flow. It is good for your heart and brain which are the two organs that require s steady flow of oxygen carried by the blood.
DON’T DITCH EXERCISE
Michael Miller, M.D., of the University of Maryland reported that in a study of 20 healthy people, provoking laugher did as much good for their arteries as aerobic activity. Although he does not recommend you laugh instead of exercise, he does advise you to get a healthy knee slapping chortle in on a regular basis.
TAKE HEART
Researchers don’t know for certain how laughter benefits that heart muscle but it seems to. Perhaps it comes form the vigorous movement of the diaphragm muscles when you crack up. Additionally it may trigger the release of endorphins that have an effect on the arteries.
NO SUBSTITUTE
It goes without saying that there is no substitute for healthy lifestyle choices, exercise, proper medication and seeing your healthcare provider when indicated. It also goes without saying that laughter is the best medicine. By days end, find something to laugh about and see how it helps. Speaking of help, if we can help with your diagnostic ultrasound needs, call us at 505-350-3397.