The Cure

“There is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humor.” 

I've found it! The cure to all of life's problems, laughter. Have you ever had yourself a good laugh fest?   If you haven't I highly suggest you do. It is a WONDERFUL thing. There is nothing as great as sitting there laughing until your stomach hurts and no sound is coming out of your mouth. Yes, you may look ridiculous, but who cares?! I have been doing a lot of random research lately on how laughter benefits us mentally, physically, and socially. I was surprised to find that there are actually a ton of wonderful things that come from laughing. 

“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.”
~ Paul E. McGhee, Ph.D.

 According to studies done, laughter is a very, very good stress reliever. It relaxes the whole body, (after a good, hearty laugh your muscles stay relaxed up to 45 minutes after it! Isn't that so cool?!), it boosts your immune system,   it triggers the release of endorphins (body's natural feel-good chemicals), and it protects your heart. How does it do this you may ask, I'll tell you how. It improves the function of your blood vessels and increases your blood flow. Which protects you from heart attacks and other horrible cardiovascular problems. 
Along with physical benefits, there are mental and social benefits. laughing can add joy and zest to your life, it eases anxiety and fear, improves your mood,  strengthens relationships, helps defuse conflict, the list goes on and on. Who wouldn't want to laugh?! i mean really, come on. Laughing is great. Look at all the wonderful things you get from it! (Not to mention it gives you killer abs!) 
So, do the world a favor, LAUGH. A lot. It's good for you. Having a sense of humor can help you get a better perspective on things and just makes life more fun in general. 
If you'd like to read more about it, here's a good website. http://www.helpguide.org/life/humor_laughter_health.htm

^funny video

much love,
Katie.