The Benefits of Laughter Therapy

With the constant pressures to meet deadlines, juggle responsibilities and navigate through life’s challenges, stress and anxiety have become a common part of our daily lives, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and drained. It is during these times that we often overlook one of the simplest and most effective tools for boosting our wellbeing - laughter therapy.

What is Laughter Therapy?

Laughter therapy, also known as humour therapy, uses laughter to promote our overall health and wellness. It is based on the idea that laughter has the power to heal not just emotionally, but also physically and mentally. This natural, powerful tool has been used for centuries in various cultures around the world and recent scientific research has only served to confirm what our ancestors instinctively knew - that laughter is indeed the best medicine.

A study undertaken by the National Library of Medicine found that “Decreasing stress-making hormones found in the blood, laughter can mitigate the effects of stress. Laughter decreases serum levels of cortisol, epinephrine, growth hormone, and 3,4-dihydrophenylacetic acid (a major dopamine catabolite), indicating a reversal of the stress response. “

Laughter Benefits

1. One of the key benefits of laughter therapy is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. When we laugh, our body releases endorphins - the feel-good hormones that help to reduce the levels of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. This natural process not only helps us feel happier and more relaxed, but it also boosts our immune system, lowers blood pressure and improves our overall cardiovascular health. By incorporating laughter therapy into our daily routines, we can effectively manage stress and create a more positive outlook on life.


2. Laughter therapy is also a great way to improve our mental health. Laughter has been found to enhance our cognitive functions, creativity and problem-solving skills. It helps to break down mental barriers and create a more open and positive mindset. By engaging in laughter therapy activities such as group laughter sessions, laughter yoga or simply watching a funny movie, we can stimulate our brains and improve our mental wellbeing.


3. As well as the physical and mental benefits, laughter therapy also has a positive impact on our social wellbeing. Laughter is contagious and when we share a laugh with others, we create a bond that strengthens relationships and builds a sense of community. Laughter therapy sessions often involve group activities that encourage interaction and connection with others, leading to increased feelings of belonging and social support. This sense of connectedness can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are common contributors to poor mental health.


4. Finally, laughter therapy has the power to improve our emotional wellbeing by helping us cope with difficult situations and negative emotions. By finding humour in challenging circumstances, we can shift our perspective and find a more positive way to navigate through life's ups and downs. Laughter therapy provides a healthy outlet for expressing emotions and can be particularly beneficial for those struggling with depression, grief or trauma.



Laughter therapy offers a holistic approach to improving our overall wellbeing. By incorporating laughter into our daily lives, we can experience a range of benefits that positively impact our physical, mental, emotional and social health. Whether through structured sessions or simply finding reasons to laugh in our daily routines, we can tap into the healing power of laughter and create a more joyful and fulfilling life. So, let's not underestimate the power of a good laugh - it may just be the best medicine we need to thrive in today's hectic world.