Do you remember the last time you laughed so hard that your stomach hurt a little after? It’s a fabulous feeling emotionally and physically – one you might even describe as “having a full heart.”
At Acacia Creek, a Certified Center for Successful Aging, and retirement community, residents and staff focus on achieving optimal health by growing the whole person – intellectually, socially, physically, and spiritually. Laughter touches upon all four of these successful aging components, benefitting both the body and mind.
Here are some ways laughter benefits our health.
- Laughing supports heart health. Laughter increases blood flow, reduces arterial inflammation, increases “good” cholesterol, and strengthens the immune system.
- Laughing reduces stress. Laughter is a fantastic stress-reliever. It stimulates our internal organs, causing our bodies to produce endorphins – feel-good hormones. After a good laugh, we’re likely to feel a sense of release, as negative thought patterns are put aside and our muscles relax.
- Laughing helps us find common ground. Let’s face it: It’s hard to argue with someone while sharing a good laugh. Infusing a sense of humor into difficult situations can help ease confrontations and make it easier to build consensus.
- Laughing increases our personal satisfaction. Laughter is an expression of joy and an acknowledgement of our capacity for happiness. By experiencing pleasurable emotions on a regular basis, we become able to move beyond difficult situations more easily and lessen feelings of anxiety and depression.
Acacia Creek residents and staff find joy and fulfilment by trying new things and sharing our passions with each other!
Acacia Creek Retirement Community inspires residents to live an active, meaningful life. Our mission as a senior community is to enrich the independence, well-being, and security of our residents through exceptional services and care based on Masonic values.
To learn more about Acacia Creek or our senior housing opportunities, contact us at www.acaciacreek.org/contact
