It is generally accepted that stress is the key factor that prevents people from laughing, as the modern way of life has gotten increasingly complicated. However, jokes are a bodily manifestation of humour and joy with many curative and therapeutic benefits.
Because of the strong correlation between happiness and psychological fortitude, it is one of the most effective strategies to control one’s perceptions of stress, as well as to cultivate resilience and strengthen one’s psychological toughness.
There is evidence that laughter increases connectivity in various parts of the brain, leading to brain function improvements. Happiness and humour can help improve brain function.
However, jokes trigger the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factors, a substance that protects neurons already present and promotes the development of new neurons and synapses. Because the brain is capable of neuroplasticity, it is advantageous to pack as much joy and laughter into our life experiences.
The use of humour in patient care has been acknowledged for a very long time in the world of medicine. Henri de Mondeville, a professor of surgery who lived in the 1300s, is credited with popularizing the use of humour in postoperative care.
What Are The Physical Effects of Jokes?
There is a physiological explanation for why humour makes people feel better. According to several studies, Jokes can strengthen the immune system and cause the brain to generate neurochemicals that cause feelings of joy.
Laughter triggers an increase in the production of white blood cells that serve as the body’s primary line of defence against infection. These cells are part of the immune system, which is strengthened by the activity.
When you laugh, your brain triggers the release of potent endorphins, neurotransmitters that make you feel good. Moreover, the term “natural high” refers to the feelings of euphoria, sedation, and increased tolerance to pain that endorphins produce.
Endorphins are naturally occurring compounds that are structurally similar to morphine. To put it another way, laughing releases endorphins, which alleviate both physical and mental pain, so it helps us feel better. Even though this is likely a lovely experience, there are additional advantages to laughing as well:
- Jokes cause a transient increase in a person’s breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. This leads to an increase in the amount of oxygen carried through the bloodstream, ultimately decreasing blood pressure.
- Laughter has been shown to improve blood arteries’ function and boost blood flow, which can help guard against a heart attack and other cardiovascular disorders.
- Jokes ease suffering and make it possible to tolerate uncomfortable feelings. In addition, laughter lowers sugar levels in the blood, which increases glucose tolerance in people with diabetes and those without the condition.
- Jokes can relax the entire body, hence reducing feelings of stress and tension. It has been demonstrated that when a person has a good, hearty laugh, the muscles in their body relax for up to 45 minutes after the laughter has stopped.
- Cancer patients who participate in laughter therapy report increases in both their identity and their mood.
- Laughter can significantly alter the quality of our professional life, which is something we should keep in mind. People can relax, feel reassured, and come closer together with the help of fun.
Final Verdict:
It’s a well-known fact that jokes are one of the best medicines. It brings people together in ways that induce good changes in the body’s physical and emotional state. For example, jokes can fortify your immune system, improve your mood, lessen pain intensity, and shield you from the negative consequences of stress.