The Very Best Medicine

     Laughter has many astounding benefits, especially if it’s the sound of your grandchildren giggling. It warms your heart like a saucer of hot soup in a snowstorm. Just try not to smile when you see your kids rolling in hysterics, it can’t be done. Laughter is good for you and contagious in many ways.

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     Physical: Science shows there are mirror neuron systems which are an unconscious response for the body to mimic what the brain sees. It’s immediate and involuntary. The brain can’t tell the difference between real or fake laugh, they produce the same benefits. Laughter releases endorphins which make you feel better, a natural high. It can strengthen your immune system and fight disease.

     Emotional: More laughter with others strengthens relationships, calms the mood and decreases anxiety. Belly laughs are the best and most of mine were with loved ones playing games like crazy Cranium and Catchphrase.

     Spiritual: We’ve all heard a merry heart does good like medicine. Proverbs 17:22 says” A joyful, cheerful heart brings healing to both body and soul. But the one whose heart is crushed struggles with sickness and depression.” (Passion translation) Joy and laughter lift the Spirit, bring a fresh perspective and make life’s journey smooth.

     Let joy and laughter be contagious and spread among your family and friends. Even so there are times of tears that don’t come from laughing. How do you get through grief, loss or difficult times? If you’re facing any if these where you feel like your world is turned upside down or you’ll never be the same again, take heart dear one. You may never get over it, but you can get through it wrapped in the arms of Jesus. I think of the family that lost two teenage boys in a plane crash recently and my heart and prayers go out to them.

     Scripture says “…weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” Psalm 30:5 KJV. Everyone’s night is a different length of time or a different depth of darkness. You do what needs done. For me when my son died I had to plan a funeral and buy diapers for our grandson we started caring for. You have to put one foot in front of the other,  and maintain connections for they are crucial even if you don’t feel like it. You will realize hope, healing and joy, even if only one ray at a time.

     In either case, tearful times or terrific times, let the joy and laughter lighten your load. Go out with giggles my friends!

                              Love Debbie