Researchers from a Russian university in Perm have found that laughter relieves pain and anxiety, stimulates the immune system, and helps the body cope with stress, viruses, and reduces the risk of developing malignant tumors. As the head of the 'Chemistry and Biotechnology' department, Dr. Valery Letvinov, stated: 'During laughter, endorphins are produced, which reduce pain, decrease anxiety, and create a slight feeling of euphoria.' This balances the mood, and the nervous system shifts from a state of tension to a state of recovery. Furthermore, laughter helps lower cortisol and adrenaline levels, the rise of which is harmful to the cardiovascular system and metabolism. Letvinov adds: 'The immune system starts to work more efficiently, improving the functions of immune cells that fight viruses and tumors. Metabolism also stabilizes due to a decrease in glucocorticoids, and the elasticity of blood vessels and the heart improves as a result of increased pulse and vessel dilation during laughter, followed by a phase of deep relaxation, which helps maintain normal blood pressure.' Other benefits of laughter include training the respiratory system: deep inhalation and exhalation during laughter improve lung ventilation and blood oxygenation, which is beneficial for people with respiratory diseases; muscle relaxation: after a bout of laughter, the body's muscles relax for up to 45 minutes, reducing physical tension; strengthening social bonds: shared laughter strengthens relationships, fosters team spirit, and creates a positive atmosphere, which supports mental health.
