Watch Comedy for Stress Relief
With today’s fast paced life style many people are dealing with more stress than ever. Factor in the raising cost of gas and slowing of the economy and it is clear to see a population that is stressed out. Growing data indicates that a good belly laugh may be the best way to battle stress. So go to the local comedy club or check out the free comedy clips on line for some stress relief.
Laughter’s benefit on your health is no joke, and provide both long term and short term benefits. When you laugh, it doesn’t just lighten your load mentally, it actually induces physical changes in your body.
Laughter enhances your intake of oxygen-rich air, stimulates your heart, lungs and muscles, and increases the endorphins that are released by your brain. A good laugh cools down your stress response and increases your heart rate and blood pressure. A good, relaxed feeling, and lower stress rates are the result. Laughter can also ease digestion and stimulate circulation, which helps reduce some of the physical symptoms of stress.
Long term benefits include an improved immune system. Negative thoughts manifest into chemical reactions that can impact your body by bringing more stress into your system and decrease your immunity. In contrast, positive thoughts actually release neuropathies that help fight stress and potentially more serious illnesses. One study, of people with cancer who watched humorous videos showed less stress. and an increase in a particular cell activity that’s beneficial in fighting diseases such as HIV and cancer. Research increasingly shows that laughter may ease pain by causing the body to produce its own natural painkillers.
Laughter can also help make difficult situations a little bit easier. One study of nurses who work in emergency rooms found that nurses who use humor in dealing with their patients and co-workers experience greater job satisfaction. They also experienced feelings of personal accomplishment more than do those who do not laugh during their shifts.
The data is in that laughter is good for you, and it is a lot of fun too. So get that funny movie or go to the comedy club or watch stand up comedy online to enjoy the positive effects of humor on your body and mind.