Alistair Gardiner | April 30, 2021

Laughter is the best medicine—at least, that’s what they say. And, according to a growing body of research, that’s not just hyperbole. From lowering blood pressure to alleviating stress, humor boasts some bonafide healing power.
Laughter is the best medicine—at least, that’s what they say. And, according to a growing body of research, that’s not just hyperbole. From lowering blood pressure to alleviating stress, humor boasts some bonafide healing power.

As a physician, finding more humor in your life could benefit not only your health, but that of your patients, too. Plus, World Laughter Day is coming up on May 2. What better time to examine the health benefits of laughing and some tips on using humor in a clinical setting?

The health benefits of laughing 

Crack up. Giggle. Cackle. Guffaw. Chortle. Whatever you want to call it, laughter offers both short- and long-term health benefits, according to the Mayo Clinic. Having a laugh induces immediate physical changes, all of which result in heightened feelings of well-being.

Laughter is the best medicine—at least, that’s what they say. And, according to a growing body of research, that’s not just hyperbole. From lowering blood pressure to alleviating stress, humor boasts some bonafide healing power.

As a physician, finding more humor in your life could benefit not only your health, but that of your patients, too. Plus, World Laughter Day is coming up on May 2. What better time to examine the health benefits of laughing and some tips on using humor in a clinical setting?