How many times a day do you giggle, snort or guffaw? Do you think you laugh more as you get older, or less? Research has shown that the average adult laughs only 15 times a day, whereas healthy children hit 400 in that same time frame. Whats relevant about this to arthritis patients is that research has proven that laughter-as-medicine isnt just the stuff of folklore but does in fact have positive effects on the body. Cleveland Clinic psychologist Scott Bea, PsyD, confirms the efficacy of a big belly laugh. Studies have shown that laughing not only eases stress and its negative effects on our bodies, but can also relieve inflammation-related pain and boost immunity, he says.
To continue reading this article or issue you must be a paid subscriber.
Sign in
