The Science of Laughter
Why is laughter so important for our health?
A huge amount of research has been done looking into the health benefits of laughter. Some of its greatest pioneers include:
Norman Cousins – author of “Anatomy of An Illness (As Perceived by the Patient)” – diagnosed with a painful, degenerative, incurable condition he found that 10 minutes of “mirthful” laughter gave him 2 hours of pain free sleep – see Wikipedia profile and read more
Dr William Fry – Psychologist, Stanford University – the “Father of Gelotology” (the science of laughter) – read more about this research
Dr Lee Berk – Psycho Neuro Immunlogist, Loma Linda University, California – 23 years of laughter studies – read more about his research
Dr Hunter “Patch” Adams – founder of the “Gesundheit! Institute” and the Therapeutic Clowning Movement in hospitals and brought to world wide attention by actor Robin Williams in the film ‘Patch Adams’- read more
And of course our very own Jo Bluett as seen in the Independent on Sunday:
“Laughter Inc: The Cheering Growth of the Chuckle Industry” – The Independent 16/06/13
Jo also appeared in Leukaemia Care’s Journey Magazine – click here (Page 11).
and on the STV (Scottish Television) website – click here.
Research Links & Articles
“Now there’s proof – laughter really is the best medicine! – Telegraph 04/08/13
“Study reveals laughter really is the best medicine” – BBC News, Science & Environment 14/09/11
“Stop jogging, get giggling: laughter is the best medicine” – The Daily Telegraph 27/04/09
“Laughter can keep the weight off” – BBC News 18/01/2007
“Laugh and the world can’t help laughing with you, study says” – The Independent 13/12/06
“How can you laugh when you don’t feel like laughing? – Dr Madan Kataria 31/10/06
“I don’t feel like laughing but I will try” – Dr Madan Kataria Youtube link
“Laughter really is the best medicine” – The Guardian 03/04/06
“Laughter really could be the best form of medicine” – Telegraph 17/04/09
“Laughter eases hospital pain” – BBC News 21/02/02
“The best medicine: The power of laughter” – Independent 14/01/12
“Laughter: The Best Medicine” – Psychology Today 05/04/05
“Laughter ‘boosts blood-vessel health” – Nature Science Journal 07/03/05
“Laughter ‘boosts blood vessels” – BBC News 07/03/05
“Group exercise ‘boosts happiness’ ” – BBC News 15/09/09
“Laughing Your Way to Organizational Health – David Granirer (date unknown)