You probably realize that laughter is the best cure for many things that bother us, but did you know that laughter is a very powerful way to create immune-balance? We now know that laughter helps regulate the immune system, due in part to messenger molecules called endorphins. It is well known that regulatory T-cells (the cells that are responsible for keeping the immune system balanced) are primed by endorphins. This means, the more endorphins you have, the more regulatory T cells and immune balance you will have. This is the most overlooked secret to immune balance.
Endorphins are part of a larger group of chemicals known as neuropeptides. These neuropeptides, which Dr. Candace Pert named “molecules of emotion,” are now considered the material equivalent of thoughts that regulate the immune system (Pert, 1997). Whenever we think, imagine, laugh or have an emotional reaction, we make neuropeptides that bind to and communicate with our immune cells. The great news is that your immune system has an immediate positive response to laughter, which can be used as a therapeutic tool to increase neuropeptides and endorphins.
Besides increasing neuropeptides and endorphins, laughter has been shown to decrease cortisol, the main stress hormones, and increase DHEA, an anti-aging hormone produced by the adrenal gland. Another study showed that laughter significantly reduces levels of inflammation-triggering cytokines in people with rheumatoid arthritis (Matsuzaki, 2009).
We all know that a good belly laugh is satisfying and calms the mind. Given the therapeutic benefits of laughter and the accessibility of comedic relief, it seems like an easy way to consistently balance your immune system. I always feel better when I make a point of taking a break from the seriousness of life to find some way of laughing more often. I don’t know about you, but I love watching comedic shows and movies to keep the laughter going on a daily basis. For more information about how to create immune system balance, check out my new music project here.
