William James once said that a laugh is a smile that burst. If that is true, I can usually be found bursting all over the place since I have a tendency to laugh all the time. If you could think back for one moment on a time that you laughed so hard that you literally peed in your pants, started crying, or had a laugh that could not be contained, you'll be bursting too. | But why do we laugh and what is its purpose in our lives. Have you ever thought about why God created laughter; what causes it; are there any health benefits associated with laughter, and is it really medicine to the soul? What is Laughter Laughter is an expression or appearance of merriment or amusement. Causes of Merriment According to NBC News, laughter is triggered by many sensations and thoughts, and that it activates many parts of our body. | God's Purpose God created laughter so humans could experience joy and at time release the stresses of life. He tells us in the Book of Proverbs that "A merry heart does good like a medicine." (17:22) Benefits of Laughter The Mayo Clinic suggest that laugher relieves stress, stimulates organs, soothe tension, improve immune system and mood. So the next time you get a sudden urge to do more than just smile, remember laughter does a body good. |