Why does laughter increase heart rate

Some studies have shown that people with certain personality types, for example, those who are hostile or angry, have a higher risk of heart disease.

Humor is infectious. When laughter is shared, it binds people together and increases intimacy and happiness. It also triggers healthy physical changes in the body. Laughter helps:. Nonetheless, there seems to be an increase in catecholamine levels, which may, in turn, affect mental functions such as interpersonal responsiveness, alertness, and memory.

Similarly, it is currently hypothesized that laugher stimulates the release of endorphins. Finally, laughter has been shown to decrease the secretion of the stress hormone, serum cortisol. Laughter also appears to have beneficial effects on immune system functioning.

Low levels of immunoglobin A IgA are correlated with high life stress and illness; preliminary evidence links laughter and IgA and experimental research has demonstrated that concentrations of IgA increased after viewing humorous videotapes.

Research has also demonstrated a relationship between laughter and activation of natural killer cells and T lymphocytes a type of white blood cell , which are important for effective immune system functioning. In conclusion, laughter can help improve mood, increase immune system functioning, and moderate stress hormones. Additionally, laughter is free or at the very least, affordable and it lacks harmful or unwanted side effects with the exception of the occasional stomachache.

It has been hypothesized that if a pharmaceutical company was to create a new medication that had the same benefits and side-effects as laughter, with a similar cost profile, it would gladly be embraced in the medical community. Predoctoral internship at the Durham Veteran Affairs Medical Center in Durham, North Carolina where she has continued to develop interest in the intersection of physical and mental health.

Search our database of licensed psychologists verified by the National Register to meet higher care standards. The Tohoku Journal of Experimental Medicine. Lopes-Junior LC, et al. Effectiveness of hospital clowns for symptom management in paediatrics: Systematic review of randomized and non-randomised controlled trials.

Seaward BL. Comic relief: The healing power of humor. In: Essentials of Managing Stress. Van der Wal CN, et al. Laughter-inducing therapies: Systematic review and meta-analysis. See also 3 simple strategies to help you focus and de-stress 3 ways to become more stress resilient 3 ways to learn patience and amp up your well-being 4 proven ways you can feel happier 5 ways to bring play back into your life A Very Happy Brain Adapt to put stress in its place Anger management: Your questions answered Are your holidays a dietary free-for-all?

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Mayo Clinic Press Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic. So next time you notice those feelings creeping up, try thinking of a funny story, movie, or joke. You can even find opportunities for laughter by taking a look at yourself!

A good laugh or even a funny thought can help us view our situation in a different light, reduce anxiety or stress, and strengthen the bond between ourselves and others. Call us Search for:. Try Laughing: It Relieves Stress and Is Good for Your Heart It may not be a cure-all, but according to a study by cardiologists, there is scientific proof that laughter may help prevent heart disease.

Laughter enhances your intake of oxygen-rich air, stimulates your heart, lungs, and muscles, and increases the endorphins the feel-good hormones that are released by your brain.

Activates and relieves your stress response. A rollicking laugh fires up and then cools down your stress response, and it can increase your heart rate and blood pressure. The result? A good, relaxed feeling.