Laughter is the best medicine. We actually have research to back up this old adage! Many studies show laughter is linked to reduced cortisol levels thus reducing the harmful effects of stress.

I was asked to comment about a recent study showing “that regular chuckling expands heart tissue and promotes the flow of oxygen in the body, thus reducing the risk of cardiac disease.”

I find these results exciting because it is something risk and cost free that anyone can implement. It’s a reminder to incorporate joy and positivity in your life. 

If it’s good for your heart, it’s good for your brain. It’s about circulation and circulation is good for both. You’re reducing inflammation which is bad for both.

I was at Marama this past week and took a moment to appreciate the environment there. Everyone is so great. The food smells so good, it looks so good, it tastes so good. The garden is so beautiful. It is such a great spot and I’m just so proud of it.

I’m proud that we incorporate joy and positivity in daily life at Marama and Clear Mind Center. Games are part of our daily schedule and they are a great opportunity to create laughter.

Here are some suggestions to create laughter in your life courtesy of HelpGuide.org:

• Watch a funny movie, TV show, or YouTube video.
• Invite friends or co-workers out to a comedy club.
• Read the funny pages.
• Seek out funny people.
• Share a good joke or a funny story.
• Check out your bookstore’s humor section.
• Host game night with friends.
• Play with a pet.
• Go to a “laughter yoga” class.
• Goof around with children.
• Do something silly.
• Make time for fun activities (e.g. bowling, miniature golfing, karaoke).

If you find yourself struggling to laugh, HelpGuide.org offers these suggestions for developing your sense of humor:

• Laugh at yourself. 
• Attempt to laugh at situations rather than bemoan them. 
• Surround yourself with reminders to lighten up. 
• Remember funny things that happen. 
• Don’t dwell on the negative. 
• Find your inner child. 
• Deal with stress. 
• Don’t go a day without laughing. 

I challenge you to find laughter every day this week and spread that joy with someone you care for.

Warmly,
Dr. Heather Sandison

P.S. I’m feeling really positive about my quest to create a world free of dementia. I want to give more people the opportunity to experience a senior living facility with the goal for residents to return to independent living. Apply to Marama or Clear Mind Center before October 31 and receive $2500 off your monthly fee for an entire year – $30,000 savings!

P.P.S. Or if you just want to incorporate the types of delicious, nutritious food we have at Marama, but don’t have a lot of time or a skilled chef like we do at our living facilities, check out this meal delivery service for The Bredesen Protocol® KetoFLEX 12/3 Diet.