$Unique_ID{BRK02007}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{The Therapeutic Benefits of Laughter}
$Subject{humor laughter laughing sense of humor Norman Cousins gelotology
stress tension anxiety recovery process therapeutic humor illness therapy
therapies}
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Copyright (c) 1993  Tribune Media Services, Inc.


The Therapeutic Benefits of Laughter


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QUESTION:  I have the impression from reading your column regularly, that you
have a fine sense of humor.  So I have a funny question for you.  Do you think
that laughter has any effect on medical situations?  I would be interested in
reading your opinion.

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ANSWER:  To be certain, there are circumstances in life and in the practice
of medicine that are no laughing matter.  But I do believe that keeping your
sense of humor is an invaluable aid in coping with some situations for which
there are no other remedies.  You are probably aware that Norman Cousins, a
famous author and professor at UCLA, wrote a book, "Anatomy of an Illness," in
which he credited laughter with helping to reverse the effects of his illness.
Since then, other researchers and writers have added to our knowledge of
laughter as medicine.  There is even a name for this area of study.  It is
called "gelotology".  We all know that a good laugh can relieve stress and
tension, provide relief from anxiety, and lift a sagging spirit.  And all of
that can be of considerable help in speeding a recovery, or simply making one
feel better.  If you are really interested in this subject, you might wish to
contact the American Association for Therapeutic Humor, 1163 Shermer Road,
Northbrook, IL 60062.  They are a valuable resource for additional information
on this most interesting subject.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.