Laughter is the Best Medicine

What soap does for the body, laughter does for the soul.

-- Yiddish Proverb

In this modern world, of being good, right, and successful, we often overlook one of the greatest physical therapies known to humanity - the rib-tickling, snort-inducing gift of laughter.

Time Magazine included laughter in its special A-Z of Medicine Edition and highlighted the physical benefits of a good chuckle including a 22% increase in blood flow, a decrease in stress hormones such as cortisol, and a stronger immune system. And a study also showed that children laugh up to 400 times a day, while grown-ups can manage a slim 15 chuckles. (Wah-Wah!)

What seems to have been forgotten by most of us in this serious business of Adulting, is that life is essentially designed to be joyous, amusing and very funny.

Of course today’s many and varied social challenges-Racism, inequality and poverty is no laughing matter. But humor can be one of our greatest tools in times of division and conflict.

So, as you wander down life’s twisted path, take time to flex your funny bone and stretch your sense of humor. There are few things as inherently healing as the cackle, snort and chuckle of a human laugh. (Mwah, Ha, Ha!)