Laughter is the sound of play.

I loved this article sent to me so much I had to share it. It's from the "Inner Quality Tip" Newsletter from Heartmath.com. Wow... to be a kid again!

THE LIGHTER SIDE

Someone once told me while I was in the midst of a difficult situation, if there's the slightest chance you might look back on this some day and laugh about it, start laughing now. Granted, this doesn't always work, but it sure has helped me get through some tough times.

In addition to facilitating a perceptual shift, laughter has a lot of other benefits. Studies ¹ on humor and laughter from Duke University, Loma Linda University, UCLA and others have shown:

Laughing helps relax tense muscles.
It reduces the production of stress hormones.
Laughter and a positive attitude strengthen the immune system.
It allows a person to 'forget' about aches and pains and perceive pain as less intense.
A good laugh is like an aerobic workout for the heart and lungs--increasing the body's ability to use oxygen.
It helps lower high blood pressure.
There are no known negative side effects to laughter.

Laughing is a part of the human experience. Recent research shows that "circuits" for laughter exist in very ancient regions of the human brain. Robert Provine, a psychology professor at the University of Maryland in Baltimore, tells us laughter's origin is in tickling and rough-and-tumble play. Laughter is literally the sound of play. ²

Maybe that's why young children laugh over 300 times a day. It's natural. Surprise, surprise: That number falls to 15 with adults. Unlike children who laugh unconditionally, we adults wait to find cause. ³ Which brings up another one of those which-came-first conundrums: Do we grow old because we stop laughing? Or, do we lose our ability to laugh because we grow up?

Whatever tickles your funny bone, add more laughter to your day!

Take care,
Kim Allen

1 http://www.rtpnet.org/~cahaha/wilstar-article.htm
2 (National Geographic)
3 http://www.hinduonnet.com/folio/fo0003/00030440.htm

Comments

Learning How Reflexology May Help You

Earlier this week I found myself on an incredible internet journey. . . DESTINATION: Articles and Info about specific ways reflexology may help you, your family and your friends. I was serious about this. You must understand, in the USA not too much research has been done to document the results reflexologists see everyday. Other countries (Denmark, UK, and China mostly) have done extensive research. Their results have encouraged them to place reflexology into the mainstream of the medical community. Tennessee, the state where I live and practice reflexology, was the first state to actually set reflexolgoy apart from other modalities and professions, and its regulation does fall under health related boards. That is certainly a positive!!! My journey did lead to some interesting locations I would love to share with you. I believe if you will check these out you will learn so much about the value of reflexology as not only one of the most incredibly relaxing experiences you may have, but...

2nd Question! Your Answer/Comment is Another Opportunity in Our Give Away

We continue in this month of counting blessings and thankfulness with our celebration of Footsteps In Eden Reflexology's 4th Birthday. From our very beginning, Footsteps In Eden chose to offer you way more than a reflexology "session." Our goal was to offer you an experience of delight for all the senses. We appeal to your sense of smell through the use of aromatherapy. In our case, high quality therapeutic grade essential oils from Young Living . Did you know that of all of our senses, the sense of smell is the only one where we react first and think about our response later? Something to think about, but not the question for today. So, the question is, what is your favorite essential oil, how do you use it, and why? To familiarize yourself with essential oils and their benefits, begin your journey of discovery here .

How Can I Achieve Optimal Physical and Mental Wellness Through a Holistic Approach that Integrates Nutrition, Fitness, Mindfulness, and Self-Care?

🌿💪 Seeking ways to achieve optimal physical and mental wellness through a holistic approach that integrates nutrition, fitness, mindfulness, and self-care? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the foundations of holistic well-being and provide practical tips to help you create a balanced and harmonious lifestyle. From nourishing your body with wholesome foods to developing a fitness routine, incorporating mindfulness practices, and prioritizing self-care, get ready to embark on a transformative journey towards holistic wellness. Let's empower your mind, body, and spirit! 🌱✨ 1. Nourish Your Body with Nutrient-Dense Foods Start by nourishing your body with a balanced and nutrient-dense diet. Focus on whole foods, including a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Incorporate superfoods like berries, leafy greens, and nuts that are rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients. Limit processed foods, sugary ...

Natural Health and Wellness

Search This Blog