Laughter is the best, and powerful, medicine

The adage “Laughter is the Best Medicine,” traces back to the Book of Proverbs in the Bible, written between 1015 and 975 B.C. The New International Version reads, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Despite updates over the centuries, the essence remains unchanged: laughter and joy are indeed powerful.

Doctors have recognized the benefits of laughter for centuries:

Henri de Mondeville (1300s) was one of the first to advocate for humor as part of postoperative care.

Norman Cousins, a journalist and professor, developed a laughter-based treatment, finding that 10 minutes of laughter could provide up to two hours of pain relief.

Patch Adams, the renowned physician and subject of the movie “Patch Adams,” believed in integrating laughter, joy, and creativity into the healing process.

Scientific Benefits of Laughter

Clinical research confirms that laughter:

Releases endorphins, natural mood enhancers.

Strengthens the immune system.

Diminishes pain.

Protects against the harmful effects of stress.

Improves heart health by enhancing blood vessel function and increasing blood flow.

Burns calories, potentially aiding weight loss (around 40 calories per 10-15 minutes of laughter).

Relaxes muscles.

Provides mental health benefits by alleviating anxiety and tension.

Mindfulness experts also suggest that laughter can help reset the nervous system, promoting relaxation and potentially extending life.

Balance

Although laughter offers significant health benefits, it’s important to remember that it’s not a substitute for medical care. As Jay Leno humorously points out, “Laughter is terrible medicine. It doesn’t do anything at all. A guy like me will die laughing. Don’t talk to a comedian. Talk to your doctor!” Laughter can enhance well-being, but it should complement, not replace, professional medical care.

Support Community Healthcare

Health care in our community is no laughing matter. In Linn County, alone, over 9,000 people lack insurance and can’t afford medical care. In 2023, His Hands Free Clinic provided care to 1,309 individuals through more than 3,500 visits. This no-cost care is made possible by 151 volunteers contributing over 8,000 hours annually and local hospitals covering radiology and lab costs. However, the clinic’s annual expenses exceed $900,000, covering staff, supplies, utilities, and more.

Get Involved

Join us for the sixth Annual "Laughter is the Best Medicine" event! His Hands Free Clinic is excited to present the event on Sept. 23. After a five-year hiatus due to COVID-19 and other factors, this beloved event is back. Register by Sept. 16 at hishandsclinic.org/Laughter to secure your spot.

"Laughter is the Best Medicine" requires reservations rather than tickets, with an opportunity to contribute during the evening. The event will take place at the DoubleTree Hotel in downtown Cedar Rapids. A mix and mingle is set from 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., followed by a buffet dinner and program.

Beth Malicki, news anchor from KCRG, will be the emcee for the evening. We are delighted to feature GIT Improv (formerly Guys in Ties) from Davenport as part of our program. GIT Improv is a premier national touring company, renowned for entertaining a wide range of audiences, including Fortune 500 companies, educational institutions from grade schools to colleges, comedy festivals, theaters, and faith-based organizations.

You can make a difference in Eastern Iowa by attending or donating to "Laughter is the Best Medicine." The event welcomes attendees aged 18 and older and anyone interested in health care and improv.

Register to attend by Sept. 16 at hishandsclinic.org/Laughter.

To donate, visit HisHandsClinic.org.

Let’s enjoy some great laughs and commit to healthier living together!

Dawn Brouwers is development director at His Hands Free Clinic.