Laugh–It's Good for You!

jculler1972

Oct 13

I love it when science confirms what we already know to be true because the bible tells us the same thing! According to the book of Proverbs:

"A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones." Proverbs 17:22

Here's what research has shown to be the case about how laughter and joy affects our body.

It stimulates vital organs by improving the intake of oxygen.
It increases and decreases the heart rate, which "cools down" our stress response and relaxes us
It also reduces stress by stimulating circulation and helping muscles relax
It improves our immune system by activating neuropeptides that help fight stress
It improves our mood and lessens anxiety and depression
It improves our brain function by releasing brain derived neurotrophic factor which encourages the growth of new neurons and synapses
It improves sleep function --ten minutes of laughter can result in two hours of pain-free sleep
It lowers blood pressure, and glucose levels

The evidence is clear, and as Christians we have every reason to laugh and be happy. We have the Good News of eternal salvation. Let's share it with others!