The Power of Laughter
“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.” “A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” “A cheerful disposition is good for your health; gloom and doom leave you bone tired.” (Proverbs 17:22 various translations)
The impact of laughter is well documented. Studies show it lowers blood pressure and reduces hypertension and stress hormones. Laughter cleanses the lungs and body tissues of stored stale air because it empties more air out than it takes in. It can also increase the immune functions in the body. On top of all this, it triggers the release of endorphins - those “feel good” chemicals in the brain that make you feel happy. It can in many cases override your pain because it takes your mind off it.
Even at the worst of times we can laugh. Sometimes our bills, health, children, marriage, and other circumstances make us feel like we’ve hit a wall. I call that ‘life’ but it’s not the end. Then is the time to get out and socialize with other like- minded people. I recommend there is nothing better for Christians who are struggling than to ‘eat, drink (not worldly), and be merry’ with family and friends.
Take every opportunity to have a good hearty laugh. Laughter reflects positive emotions and makes it easier to be around. God’s Word highlights the duality of human experiences, stating, “A time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn and a time to dance” (Ecclesiastes 3:4). It reflects life's contrasting seasons and emotions. The phrase “The joy of the Lord is my strength” (Nehemiah 8:10) signifies that true joy, rooted in a relationship with God, empowers and sustains us through life's challenges.
The impact of laughter is well documented. Studies show it lowers blood pressure and reduces hypertension and stress hormones. Laughter cleanses the lungs and body tissues of stored stale air because it empties more air out than it takes in. It can also increase the immune functions in the body. On top of all this, it triggers the release of endorphins - those “feel good” chemicals in the brain that make you feel happy. It can in many cases override your pain because it takes your mind off it.
Even at the worst of times we can laugh. Sometimes our bills, health, children, marriage, and other circumstances make us feel like we’ve hit a wall. I call that ‘life’ but it’s not the end. Then is the time to get out and socialize with other like- minded people. I recommend there is nothing better for Christians who are struggling than to ‘eat, drink (not worldly), and be merry’ with family and friends.
Take every opportunity to have a good hearty laugh. Laughter reflects positive emotions and makes it easier to be around. God’s Word highlights the duality of human experiences, stating, “A time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn and a time to dance” (Ecclesiastes 3:4). It reflects life's contrasting seasons and emotions. The phrase “The joy of the Lord is my strength” (Nehemiah 8:10) signifies that true joy, rooted in a relationship with God, empowers and sustains us through life's challenges.