How Often You Get Your "LOL" On Can Determine How Healthy You Are

If you're like most people, you fall into the "love to laugh" camp, whether your online profiles tout it or not. The question is, are you making laughter a priority? Sure, some are more easily amused than others, and LOL the hours of the day away. And then there are those of us who could benefit from penciling in some giggle time. But would it be too forced? Why not just let it happen, whenever it happens? 

Research shows that having a lol-worthy take on life can result in better health, happiness, relationships and work. It isn't just something that feels good emotionally, laughing also has some pretty awesome physical effects.

The down low on LOL-ing

- Relieves muscle tension: After a hearty laugh your muscles will be more calm, cool, and collected for about 45 minutes thereafter.

- Protects you from the inside: Stress hormones decrease, and antibodies and immune cells multiply with every giggle.

- Meet your bff, endorphins: The natural feel-good chemicals released after a nice jog, hug, or sex is also released after a laugh.

- Your laughter hearts you: Blood flow increases, protecting your heart from cardiovascular issues later on.

What makes something funny

The working definition of what is funny, thus inducing that "LOL" sensation, according to Inside Jokes, is when a perception of the world suddenly corrects our mistaken perception."

So perhaps it's as simple as that, beginning to embrace absurdities, entertaining the idea, and then realizing how improbable it is and having a good laugh. Think: your elderly grandpa trying out for "So You Think You Can Dance," or overhearing a child say, "I don't think I have much more to learn, I'm very mature, my mom says."

How to get more laughter into your life

Whether it be going to the comedy instead of the drama for date night, or keeping your eyes and ears open for the funny stuff that happens every second, there are small, easy ways to get more laughter into your life. 

You're 30% more likely to laugh in social situations, and social situations happen to be positively correlated with good health. The more quality time you spend with friends, the happier and healthier you likely are. So grab a friend and go to a comedy show, doctor's orders!