Can YouTube Relieve Stress and Anxiety By Making You Laugh?

One of my favorite things to do when hanging out with friends is to watch random YouTube videos. Finding something completely ridiculous and having a deep belly laugh at what comes across the screen. Laughter is important in everyone’s life. According to this article, “Humor and laughter strengthen your immune system, boost your energy, diminish pain, and protect you from the damaging effects of stress.” So, check out these videos, laugh a little, and share with us some of your favorite funny videos.

Here are some health benefits of laughter:

  • Laughter relaxes the whole body. A good, hearty laugh relieves physical tension and stress, leaving your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes after.
  • Laughter boosts the immune system. Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, thus improving your resistance to disease.
  • Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain.
  • Laughter protects the heart. Laughter improves the function of blood vessels and increases blood flow, which can help protect you against a heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.

So, Here are a few of my favorite YouTube videos:

Funny cats

Funny dogs

Woman falls into fountain while texting

Iceskating on Peachtree Street during the Winter Storm of 2011

 

By Adam Glendye MA MFT
aglendye@growcounseling .com