There’s a good reason why TV sitcoms use laugh tracks: laughter is contagious. You’re many times more likely to laugh around other people than when you’re alone. And the more laughter you bring into your own life, the happier you and those around you will feel.
Laughter can help lessen your stress, depression and anxiety and may make you feel happier. It can also improve your self-esteem. 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.
More than just a respite from sadness and pain, laughter gives you the courage and strength to find new sources of meaning and hope. Even in the most difficult of times, a laugh, or even simply a smile can go a long way toward making you feel better. And laughter really is contagious, just hearing laughter primes your brain and readies you to smile and join in the fun.
