Is Laughter Really The Best Medicine?

by Lester Rennard

King Solomon, the famous Old Testament biblical character, must have known from his own personal experience the medicinal value of laughter. He is thought to be the wisest and wealthiest of men ever lived. As an aside, it is only unfortunate that his wisdom did not seem to extend into the arena of curbing his penchant and appetite for women and polygamous living. Notwithstanding, Solomon knew how to laugh.

In some of his famous reflections on wisdom, he issued some very profound observations and statements on laughter. In one such observation, he commented that there is a time for everything under the sun including a time for laughter. In another statement, he observed that "a cheerful [or merry] heart is good medicine". Such words do not ordinarily come from one who does not know from experience the value of laughter.

It is interesting to note that modern science has proven Solomon right - laughter is indeed good medicine. When a person laughs often, it produces a secretion in the brain known as endorphin which influences the general state of 'good feelings' that positively affects our wellbeing. When one is in such positive state, he or she feels good about themselves, their self-esteem is boosted, self-confidence elevated and their immune system positively impacted making for less susceptibility to certain illnesses and diseases. If a person is not in the best state of health, he or she will experience healing and recovery much faster.

Laughter is a good antidote for depression and any feeling of hopelessness. It improves the appearance of one's countenance and attracts positive responses from those with whom one relates. When practiced often and effortlessly, laughter maintains one's youthful appearance far into his or her senior years and also improves longevity. It makes for good public relations and inspires the same in others who are within the radius of its influence.

The one who laughs often and easily is better able at controlling negative emotions, is less uptight and not easily offended by the slights of others. He or she, while taking life seriously, does not usually take him/herself seriously and thus not naturally disposed to the ravages of stress.

So, in conclusion, if you desire health, long life, an attractive personality that makes you winsome and approachable along with the privilege of positively influencing others, good relations and a shining star, develop the art of laughter. Learn to laugh often at yourself and your foibles and the world will laugh back with you. With every laugh, maybe you and I might change this world into a kinder, gentler place to live - one laugh at a time. Laughter, indeed, is the best medicine and it requires no prescription; and best of all, it is free of cost.

Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha ....