Laughing not only feels good and connects us to those we love but did you know it can have a positive effect on your well-being? Taking care of your smile and making oral hygiene a priority is not only great for you but also improves your overall health.
When you have a healthy smile, you’re always excited to show it off and turns out smiling, and laughing releases neurotransmitters called endorphins (think of them as “happy” chemicals). These lower stress levels and whether your smile is the real thing or faked, your body doesn’t know the difference, it’s all about using those facial muscles. So the more we smile and laugh, the more often endorphins are released and the happier we feel.
Have you noticed, when you’re laughing, it’s almost impossible to be stressed? This is because laughter not only increases those endorphins, but reduces our cortisol levels, reduces blood pressure (a big risk factor for heart disease and stroke), and increases HDL, the “good” cholesterol, according to the American Heart Association.
When we laugh, our lungs take in more oxygen and increase our heart rate, it burns calories (easiest exercise ever!), and all that chuckling increases blood flow, which reduces artery inflammation.
In times of uncertainty, laughter can also reduce anxiety, improve self-esteem, and boost hopefulness, all while fighting depression at the same time. Have pain? Get your giggle on! Doctors are finding that laughter really is the best medicine and can elevate a patient’s pain threshold.
And who can resist a happy smiling person? An infectious smile and laughter make people more approachable, draw people together, and make people feel better, which makes you a more appealing person to be around. Laughter and smiling are contagious. So pass it on.
Check out more scientific benefits of laughing and schedule an appointment with your family dentist today to learn more about how to have a healthy smile.