Smiling and laughter are two things that can make you happy and can even be the best medicine for your illness. According to research done by Yale Scientific, when we smile, the brain releases a neurotransmitter known as dopamine, which has the power to produce prolonged feelings of happiness. As quoted from Medical Daily, smiling is also good for the health of your lungs, muscles, heart, and immune system. When smiling, the body usually becomes more relaxed and it is believed that this condition will further reduce blood pressure. Similarly, laughter can increase serotonin and endorphins in the brain, thereby reducing stress hormones in the body. Endorphins are known as body’s natural painkillers. That is why the treatment of chronic disease will be more effective in cases of happy patients rather than patients under stress. For mental health, laughter will reduce worries, ease anxiety, increase feelings of positivity, and improve overall happiness and mood. When laughing, people tend to forget their heavy problems. The body moves more while laughing than while smiling, thus laughter is believed to burn calories and keep the body’s cardio systems active. All in all, it is better to avoid things that can make you angry, upset, or induce negative emotions. There are lots of things that can make you smile. The Medical Daily suggested people to socialise more with friends, for example, joining Zumba class or a hobby community. Playing with pets, playing with children, reading books, or watching funny TV programs will help you smile and laugh.

Text by Denistya Sagita

Stock photos from Coconut Rewards

Source(s):

• http://www.medicaldaily.com/health-benefits- laughter-and- smiling-how- expressing-joy- affects-your-physical- 411681
• http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1265548/Smiling- add-years- life.html