It's About Woman's Health with Sharon Cabpell, CRNP

RX: Laughter

A "free" prescription? Yes! I prescribe laughter as the best way to relieve stress! Is your life such a melodrama that you have forgotten how good it feels to laugh so hard that tears come out of your eyes or that your sides hurt from laughing so much? Being a "card carrying" drama queen, I often find that I take myself way too seriously and find that at these times I am in desperate need of a good laugh!

Universities are studying the effects of laughter on the immune system. There are published studies that show that laughing lowers blood pressure by allowing the blood vessels to function better as it acts on the lining of these vessels causing them to relax and expand, increasing blood flow. It reduces stress hormones, which constrict the blood vessels and suppress immune activity. Levels of epinephrine were lower in those who are anticipating humor and after experiencing humor. A belly laugh results in muscle relaxation and reduces flexion.

While you laugh, the muscles that do not participate in the belly laugh relax. After you finish laughing those involved in the laughter start to relax. The immune system function is enhanced, elevating levels of T-cells, which fight infection, and proteins, which fight disease. Laughter promotes the release of the body's natural painkillers called endorphins and promotes a sense of general well being. Laughing is aerobic, using the diaphragm to increase the body's ability to use oxygen. Experts believe that, when used in addition to conventional care, laughter can reduce pain and aid the healing process. It also is a powerful distraction from pain.

Perhaps, the biggest benefit of laughter is that it is free and has no known side effects.

My patients can tell you that I have prescribed watching "Steel Magnolias" because you get achance to laugh and cry at the same time!

Proverbs 31 tells us about "the woman who can laugh at the days to come" Let's start now! Think of what makes you laugh and do it! If you can't think of anything, you really are in trouble! Call me ASAP!

Sharon Campbell is a Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP) who owns A New Creation Women’s Clinic. Well versed in Women’s Health, her emphasis is on reproductive and gynecological health. Sharon can be reached at: 293-1117.