laughing has beneficial effects on the heart and brain

New studies show that laughing is good for your health? “First of all, laughing is very beneficial in terms of the cardiovascular system. Researchers from the University of Tokyo have shown that it reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases and in particular the risk of stroke (cardiovascular accident). Compared to those who laugh every day, those who laugh only 1 to 5 days a week, in short almost every day, have a 12% increased risk. (…) And the worst are those who never laugh. Their risk of stroke increases by 60%“, explains Damien Mascret on the set of 13 Heures. Moreover, “those who laugh every day reduce their risk of decline in cognitive functions of the brain (Alzheimer’s and others) by 16%” and even 22% for women.

Reduce anxiety and depression

Laughter also helps reduce anxiety and depression thanks to “the secretion of endorphins, the brain’s natural morphines, which increases well-being, but also reduces the secretion of stress hormones such as cortisol“continues Damien Mascret. Even forced laughter, which is noticed by looking at the muscles around the eyes, can lower blood pressure, by about 0.5 points, and a drop of about a quarter in stress hormones. A practice encouraged by the “laughter yoga” which has settled in several countries. “But you can also watch a movie or a comedy show or have a good time with your friends“concludes Damien Mascret.