The Grampound Times
Easter 2007 (Edition 44)
Our community in Cornwall
Did you realise that laughter is good for you? That’s official !
Reading the winter edition of the National Health Service quarterly news sheet I must admit I was a little surprised to discover that although most of us may be unaware that laughter is good for us, ample research exists to prove that it is useful to promote good health by:
Reducing stress Resting the brain Bolstering morale
Decreasing anxiety Inspiring creativity Reducing anger
Stabilising mood Boosting immunity Enhancing communication
Relieving pain Maintaining hope
According to a study done in the 1950’s people used to laugh for up to 18 minutes a day, but currently, when materially we have so much more, laughing is down to just 6 minutes per day.
It is perhaps important to realise that our brains are not aware whether our laughter is genuine or faked, and both types are equally good for us. So bearing all of this in mind why not improve your health by laughing a lot more and encouraging others to do likewise. Let’s be nice to each other, take care of each other and above all, take every opportunity to laugh. If we meet in the future and I see that you are creased up with laughter, I shall not be offended that you are laughing at an old man, but rather that you are helping take care of my health and your own!
ROGER PAYNTER
(With acknowledgement of “Healthy Living Network News”
© 2006 Grampound with Creed Parish Council