Laughter has been described as “inner jogging” and “good medicine”, but does research actually support these folk sayings? A new systematic review and meta-analysis published in PLOS ONE provides evidence that laughter does reduce biomarkers of stress in the body.
Specifically, the analysis found that spontaneous laughter is associated with a significant decrease in cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone involved in the “fight-or-flight” response. When we perceive threats, cortisol production ramps up to mobilize glucose and suppress immunity while non-essential systems like digestion and reproduction are placed on hold. Prolonged high cortisol takes a toll, increasing risks for anxiety, depression, digestive issues, heart disease, obesity, and more.
Below is an informative and entertaining short video about "6 Reasons Why Laughter is the Best Medicine":
Seeking Laughter’s Impact on Cortisol
Researchers from medical centers in Brazil synthesized data from 315 adults across 8 separate studies, 4 of which were randomized controlled trials. The studies tested impacts of watching comedy videos, laughter therapy sessions, or self-guided laughter programs on salivary or serum cortisol levels compared to non-humorous control activities.
The various genuine laughter interventions lasted between 10 and 120 minutes. Cortisol was measured before and after a single session in some studies, while others had subjects participate in recurring laughter sessions over 4-6 weeks. Nonetheless, aggregated results clearly showed laugh-induced decreases in the stress biomarker.
Key Finding: 30% Average Reduction in Cortisol
Pooling all 8 studies revealed a significant 31.9% decrease in cortisol associated with laughter versus control conditions. Benefits were similar whether laughter was simulated through comedy or more directed therapy. Impressively even a lone 10-20 minute laughter experience cut stress hormone levels by 36.7% on average.
Analyzed individually, reductions ranged from 13% to 70% between studies. The impacts were consistent and remained significant when isolating just randomized trials or salivary cortisol data in sensitivity checks. The reviewers subsequently concluded that laughter holds promise as complementary treatment. They cited mechanisms like endorphin release as well as decreased adrenal activity when we find something genuinely amusing or joyful.
Laughter Therapy Benefits Seniors and Those With Dementia
The stress-relieving, health-promoting impacts of laughter take on particular significance in the senior population. Adults over 65 often deal with grief, isolation, medical problems, pain, and decreased mobility that hamper life enjoyment. Moreover, seniors comprise the majority of dementia cases, facing distressing neurocognitive declines.
However, gerontology research indicates humor and laughter interventions can improve quality of life for older adults despite physical or mental function barriers. Consistent positive emotions and social stimulation seem especially impactful for mitigating seniors' stress around aging.
In long-term care facilities, certified laughter therapists lead structured sessions featuring jokes, funny stories, bubbles, props, breathing exercises, eye contact, and more to inspire contagious chuckling. Participants report gains in mood, relationships, pain tolerance, sleep quality, and sense of optimism from laughing together.
Small experimental studies also hint that laughter therapy may temporarily enhance mental performance for Alzheimer's patients. And reminiscing over silly memories seems to help reorient dementia residents by sparking familiar responses. Though residents in assisted living often face progressive health obstacles, simple regular laughter breaks provide meaningful cognitive, emotional, and social benefits to brighten spirits.
Laughter for Coping and Health
This meta-analysis provides evidence to support long-held notions that laughter, humor, and positive emotions can counteract stress’ harms. Cortisol and sympathetic arousal prepare us to fight threats and flee danger. But frequent or chronic activation takes a toll. Being able to deeply relax through mirthful laughter gives the body a break it needs to recuperate and restore balance.
Below is an insightful TED Talk from Liliana DeLeo about "Laughter Yoga" as a form of therapeutic relief, with especially notable benefit for depression and dementia.
So in stressful times, make a point of seeking humor and laughter—whether by connecting with funny friends, enjoying comedy shows, looking at amusing animal videos, or maintaining a gratitude journal focused on blessings rather than burdens. Laugh freely and often...not just because it makes you feel better mentally, but because the physical boosts also help safeguard your health! What do you find funny or joy inducing?