Funny or Corny: What Would You Choose to Live?

Catherine Maborukoje
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Would you rather be funny and live long or corny and…?

“Be Funny or Die” is a word composition that just has a new meaning, following a study published in Psychosomatic Medicine. An article in Scientific American, supports the assertion too by saying “women with a strong sense of humour were found to live longer in spite of illness, especially cardiovascular disease and infection. Mirthful men seem to be protected against infection.”

Several researchers from Norway reported findings from a 15-year study on the link between sense of humor and mortality among 53,556 women and men in their country. The results subsequently births that laughter has a potent elixir to alleviate the complications of heart disease, infection, cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Laughter is often described as the best medicine. But no one ever asked why? It turns out that there’s a lot of science behind the feel-good effects of a good chuckle. Just like the aforementioned study stated, it is a universal language that transcends barriers of culture, language, and age. Beyond its ability to brighten our moods and lighten our loads, other emerging researches are uncovering the profound impact of humor on our health and relationships.

Laughter is a complex aura that involves multiple areas of the brain, including the prefrontal cortex (responsible for decision-making and social behaviour) and the amygdala (that plays a role in emotional processing). When we laugh, our brains release a cocktail of neurotransmitters, including dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, which can elevate our mood, reduce stress, and even alleviate pain.

The Health Benefits of Laughter

Lowering blood pressure

Laughter can help lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of stroke and heart attack. A study published in the Journal of Aging and Health found that older adults who reported higher levels of laughter had better physical health, including lower blood pressure and fewer chronic conditions.

Reducing stress hormone levels

By reducing stress hormones, laughter can cut anxiety and stress levels, leading to better immune system performance.

Improving cardiac health

Laughter acts as a cardio workout, increasing heart rate, and oxygen intake, and burning calories similar to walking at a moderate pace. According to Dr. Lee Berk, a researcher at Loma Linda University who has studied the effects of laughter on the body, “Laughter acts as a form of emotional aerobics, increasing oxygen intake and circulation, which can help to improve overall health and well-being.”

Releasing endorphins

Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, which can help ease chronic pain and improve overall well-being.

Enhancing mood

Laughter can lighten mood, lessen chronic depression and anxiety, and make it easier to cope with challenging situations.

The Power of Laughter in Relationships

According to Dr. Robert Provine, a neuroscientist and author of “Laughter: A Scientific Investigation,” “Laughter is a social behavior that signals our acceptance of others and helps to build and maintain relationships.” Studies have shown that couples who laugh together have higher levels of relationship satisfaction and are less likely to experience marital conflict.

Enhancing Communication and Strengthening Bonds

Laughter can break down barriers and create a positive environment, making it easier to discuss difficult or sensitive topics and improving overall communication. Shared laughter can also increase bonding between loved ones, creating a sense of closeness and connectedness, and deepening the emotional bond between two people.

Improves Behavior

Couples who laugh together are more likely to exhibit better behavior towards each other, enhancing their relationship thereby building resilience and equipping individuals to handle challenges and conflicts in relationships.

Enhances Emotional Connection

Sharing laughter creates an atmosphere of joy, light-heartedness, and emotional intimacy, fostering a deeper emotional connection between partners.

Strengthens Social Bonds

Shared laughter creates a sense of belonging, strengthens relationships, and fosters a positive, supportive environment for personal growth.

The science of laughter is a fascinating and complex field, with discoveries being made all the time. From its impact on our health and well-being to its role in building and maintaining relationships, laughter is a powerful force that can bring joy, happiness, and connection into our lives.