Laughter is broadly defined as a psycho-physiological response
to humour or other stimuli. It involves contractions of the
diaphragm, repetitive vocal sounds produced by the resonating
chambers of the pharynx, mouth and nasal cavities, the movement of
up to 50 facial muscles, mainly around the mouth, and, in some
cases, tears. For researchers, these physical responses are the
starting point.
It can trigger changes in muscles, and in the immune system and
hormone production. It can also lead to more positive emotions,
which improves quality of life. Third, it can pave the way for
better strategies for coping with stress and, fourth, it can
increase social skills, leading to health-enhancing benefits.
It's one of the healthiest responses of our human composition.
Not only does it help us directly, it can have a profound
'knock-on' affect for others.
Laugh and the whole world laughs with you!