Recently, research on laughter and humor has progressed. Research has shown that laughter not only makes people happy, but also encourages proactive behavior and helps maintain and improve health. As we age, our immune function declines, making us more susceptible to infectious diseases. This decline in immune function is known as “immunosenescence.” As immunosenescence progresses, abnormal cells proliferate and become cancerous. Laughter research has provided evidence to dispel this concern. It has been revealed that laughter and other activities enhance the activity of immune-active cytokines and natural killer cells. After laughter, immunoglobulin levels increased and natural killer cells were activated. The immune-boosting effect of laughter has been scientifically proven.
It is now understood that laughter promotes positive employee activity and increases energy. Workplaces with laughter are more productive than those without. NTT is collaborating to scientifically verify the effects of laughter on mental health. NTT is collaborating with the National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry to scientifically verify the effects of laughter. It has been shown that watching comedy videos significantly increases cerebral blood flow, which delivers oxygen and glucose to the frontal lobe of the brain. NTT is considering developing medical devices that can improve various symptoms through watching comedy videos. Not only NTT, but also Yoshimoto Kogyo, the original comedy company, is promoting the Laughter and Health Project and promoting partnerships with a wide range of companies. These companies are partnering with Yoshimoto Kogyo to develop new products and services themed around laughter and health.
When we are having fun or feeling happy, our facial expressions relax and we smile. We also smile when traveling with family or friends. Inner joy changes the visible physical appearance, such as smiles and posture. Meanwhile, intentionally changing your posture can bring about positive emotions. When you’re feeling down, stretching your muscles and relaxing your facial expression can help you feel more positive. On TV, you see footage of a Major League Baseball player chewing gum. Chewing gum stimulates the brain, awakens the central nervous system, and enhances motor nerve activity. The external action of chewing gum stimulates and enhances internal functions. In cases like this, there seem to be several effective actions, such as deep breathing when you feel nervous. If you have a few actions that you find effective, you may be able to avoid difficult situations.
