It’s Good for Your Heart and Soul to Laugh:
Taking care of our heart usually stirs instant thoughts of vegetables, walking shoes, and maybe cutting back on salt. But what if I told you that something as simple—and joyful—as a laugh could also help support your heart?
There’s simple, but powerful truth: laughter isn’t just fun—it’s healing. So let’s take a deeper look at how your daily giggles, chuckles, and even snorts of laughter are more than just feel-good moments—they’re part of a heart-healthy lifestyle.
The Science Behind the Laugh
Laughter sets off a chain reaction in your body that’s hard to ignore. According to the American Heart Association, laughter can reduce stress hormones like cortisol, lower blood pressure, and boost blood flow—all of which help support your cardiovascular system.
When you laugh, your body releases endorphins—the “feel good” chemicals that not only lift your mood but help reduce physical pain. Your blood vessels relax and expand, which improves circulation. Even your immune system gets a little boost. That’s not a bad tradeoff for a few moments of joy.
Laughter Reduces Stress—And That’s a Big Deal for Your Heart
We all know stress isn’t good for us, but it’s especially hard on the heart. Chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure, inflammation, and poor sleep—all of which strain the cardiovascular system. Laughter is a natural way to counteract that stress. The Mayo Clinic states that laughter can reduce stress. And when we reduce stress, we support our heart health.
Even anticipating something funny—like watching your favorite comedy or hearing a loved one’s funny story—can lower stress hormone levels. It’s like your body is already preparing to feel good.
So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed or tense, try stepping away from the pressure and watching a silly video, calling someone who always makes you laugh, or flipping through an old photo album filled with goofy memories.
Laughter and Social Connection Go Hand in Hand
Think about your last big belly laugh. Were you alone? Chances are, you were with someone—or at least talking to someone—who made you laugh. Laughter is deeply social. It builds bonds, breaks the ice, and brings people closer. And meaningful connection, as we know, is also key to heart health.
Research shows that strong relationships and a sense of belonging can lower your risk of heart disease. So when you share a laugh with a friend or family member, you’re doing something good not just for your mood, but for your heart too.
Make Laughter a Daily Habit
You don’t have to wait for laughter to show up—you can actively invite it in. Here are some simple ways to laugh more often, even on stressful or busy days:
- Watch a comedy show or funny movie—even just 10 minutes can lighten your mood.
- Listen to a podcast that makes you laugh while doing dishes, walking, or commuting.
- Read something lighthearted—a funny memoir, comic strip, or even an old favorite book.
- Spend time with people who lift your spirits—laughter is contagious.
- Don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself—it’s a great way to release tension and stay grounded.
A Personal Note: Why I Make Room for Laughter
When I was recovering from heart surgery, laughter wasn’t exactly at the top of my to-do list. But I learned—often the hard way—that laughter softened the edges of a difficult day. It helped me reconnect with the people I love. It made hard things just a little more bearable.
Even now, when life gets heavy or stressful, a small laugh can help shift the energy. It’s not about ignoring the hard stuff—it’s about making space for joy, too.
Heart Health Isn’t Just About What You Cut Out
A lot of heart-healthy advice focuses on limiting things—less sugar, less fat, less stress. And that’s important! But it’s also worth remembering that building a healthy lifestyle includes adding things that make life sweeter. Laughter is one of those things.
So if you’re working on your heart health, add laughter to the list—right alongside leafy greens and daily walks. You deserve joy as part of your healing and wellness.
Laugh Often, Live Well
Laughter is free. It’s accessible. And it doesn’t require any equipment or a gym membership. You can laugh in your kitchen, in your car, at the doctor’s office, or while watching TV. And when you do, your body—and especially your heart—thanks you.
Try keeping a little laughter log this week. At the end of the day, jot down one thing that made you laugh. You might be surprised how quickly those moments add up—and how much lighter your days start to feel.
Your heart deserves care—and that includes joy.
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Gratitude is another great way to boost your mood and support your well-being.
Read more on that here: The Heart Of Gratitude