Researchers say the healing power of laughter is real, so whoever said laughter is the best medicine was on to something.
"Some studies suggest it lowers blood pressure," said Dr. Michael Miller of the University of Maryland School of Medicine. "There have been other investigators who have shown it may have an effect on immune response, so perhaps better response from someone who has a common cold or infections when they laugh."
Researchers discovered when you laugh - really laugh - it opens up your blood vessels, causing less stress on your heart.
It can also de-stress the rest of the body by releasing endorphins from the brain.
Stress can cause the brain to overload with chemicals, which could then lead to high blood pressure, or even a stroke or heart attack.
"You can easily counteract a stressful response with laughter," said Miller.
In fact, research shows that 15 minutes a day of laughter - real deep belly laughter - is as important for your heart as 30 minutes of exercise three times a week.
That doesn't mean you should skip the gym and watch movies all day, every day, but it does suggest giggling a lot is therapeutic.
What is the best way to chuckle? Doctors recommend stay in touch with those you love and love being with.
Studies have shown that people with a strong friend base are healthier, both mentally and physically.
