Publisher’s Points to Ponder:

I attended the Olney Community Library’s “Dancing Stars of Olney” event Friday, Nov.1. I’d taken off early because I was not feeling well, and although I felt up to attending the event to support the library, I was not at 100%. After a few minutes, I began to feel better as I chatted with attendees. After a few additional minutes, I felt even better after laughing at the hilarious events that occurred throughout the evening. Considering my improved health, I can honestly say that laughter may be the best medicine, after all.  

Physicians and other medical professionals will tell you that laughter releases endorphins—the body’s natural painkillers. The next time you feel pain throughout your body, consider finding something funny to laugh at. The more I laughed during the event, the better I felt. By the time I made it home, I was full of energy, and I felt stress-free.

The reduction of stress hormones is another benefit of laughter, according to some health professionals. Less stress means lower blood pressure, which means a healthier and happier heart. At least in my case. I was thrilled that my blood pressure check showed much lower numbers than the ones I noted earlier that day. The reputable Mayo clinic supports this notion stating, “While a good sense of humor can’t cure all ailments,  data is mounting about the positive things laughter can do such as stimulate organs, soothe tension, improve your immune system, relieve pain and improve your mood.”

There are biblical references about laughter that further support the benefits of laughing. One of the most notable examples would be when Abraham’s wife Sarah laughed after she eavesdropped on Abraham having a conversation with an angel who told him Sarah would have a son. Genesis 18:12 (NIV) “So Sarah laughed to herself as she thought, ‘After I am wornout and my lord is old, will I now have this pleasure?’” Although she denied laughing, she became pregnant with Isaac, as God promised. Laughter is good for fertility, too.  

During the next few days, test the laughter theory by applying it more in your everyday activities. Don’t replace your current regimen, just make it more colorful with laughter. “There is a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn, and a time to dance.” Ecclesiastes 3:4 (NIV)

The joy of the Lord is my strength.