International Moment of Laughter Day

On April 14, stop, smell the roses, and laugh a little (or a lot), because it is International Moment of Laughter Day.

The unofficial holiday, created by humorologist Izzy Gesell, encourages people to forget the stresses of daily life and give into the healing and relaxing power of laughter.

Reduces Stress

Medical studies have shown that laughing reduces stress, increases blood flow, and lowers blood sugar levels. Some studies have found that people who laugh just before going to bed are much more likely to sleep better than those who did not.

Spreads Happiness

In addition to its health benefits, laughter also has social advantages. People who are jovial tend to be quickly accepted in social groups and have an easier time making friends. Laughter is a way to spread joy and happiness and bring cheer in the lives of other people.

How to Celebrate?

• Take a moment in the day to read or watch something that would make you laugh.
• Go with family and friends to watch a comedy show or comedy movie.
• Collect jokes and share them with colleagues, friends, and family.

Did You Know…

…that human laughter has a specific acoustic structure? Laughter can have a ha-ha-ha or ho-ho-ho structure, but it is humanly impossible to have a ha-ho-ha-ho structure to laughter.