Insights from The Orlando Senior Help Desk: Laughter is the best medicine

“Laughter and tears are both responses to frustration and exhaustion. I myself prefer to laugh, since there is less cleaning up to do afterward.” – Kurt Vonnegut

Laughter is more than a pleasant reaction — it is a powerful physiological and emotional tool. Research shows that laughter positively influences multiple body systems. It strengthens the immune response by stimulating the production of immunoglobulins, improves circulation by increasing oxygen intake and heart rate, and promotes the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers. Laughter can also reduce muscle tension and...