Laughing Is Good for Your Heart

What does a hearty laugh share with a brisk walk or even cholesterol-lowering medication? More than you might think, according to groundbreaking research. The answer lies deep inside your blood vessels, specifically in the endothelium, the delicate inner lining of your arteries. Scientists at the University of Maryland discovered that when we experience genuine laughter, this crucial lining relaxes and expands. This process, known as vasodilation, is the direct opposite of what happens during periods of mental stress, when the same lining tends to constrict and tighten, restricting blood flow.

This physiological response is remarkably potent. The study found that the vasodilation caused by laughter increases blood flow by about 22 percent, an effect that mirrors the cardiovascular benefits of aerobic exercise. This "internal workout" for your circulatory system is driven by the release of feel-good endorphins and a reduction in stress hormones. By improving vessel function and reducing the physical strain of stress, a daily dose of humor helps protect the cardiovascular system. While it's no substitute for a healthy lifestyle, regularly engaging in deep, genuine laughter can be a powerful and enjoyable tool for promoting long-term heart health.