From the Iowa Department of Public Health:
Poor health is no laughing matter; but good health just might be. Research has shown a good laugh can improve sleep, lower blood pressure, reduce stress, stimulate the brain, and engage nearly every muscle in your body. The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) is partnering with Governor Branstad’s Healthiest State Initiative to encourage all Iowans to ‘laugh out loud’ for their health’s sake on Monday, April 2.
“In many ways, laughter really is the best medicine,” said IDPH Director, Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks. “Science shows us that laughter is an excellent tool in building overall health. Laugh Out Loud (LOL) Day is a way to spotlight the importance of emotional fitness in health.” IDPH is teaming with the Healthiest State Initiative to encourage all Iowans to take time to laugh every day, but especially on April 2, LOL Day. On that day, businesses, schools, and other organizations are encouraged to promote laughter. Suggestions range from including humorous quotes in presentations to creating a humor bulletin board.
“Physical activity and healthy nutrition are key elements of good health,” said Helen Eddy, Executive Director of the Healthiest State Initiative. “But emotional well-being is also important. We want to remind people to find humor in life and to laugh a little each day. You’ll feel better for it, and so will the people around you.”
Well Reader’s Digest knew this back in the 50’s when they created the feature “Laughter is the best Medicine”!