Ever leave the movie theater after viewing a funny yet motivational story about attitude with a great feeling? Well, researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine conducted a study which suggests that the laughter and positive feelings you felt may have induced beneficial physical changes.
In a trial, a team of scientists measured the blood flow of individuals as they watched a funny movie, There's Something About Mary, and a movie meant to induce stress, Saving Private Ryan.
The researchers found that the comedic movies increased blood flow, dilating the lining of blood vessels by an average of 30 percent to 50 percent, compared to the diameter of arteries of volunteers while they watched the stressful film.
"The endothelium is the first line in the development of atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries, so it is very possible that laughing on a regular basis may be useful to incorporate as part of an overall healthy lifestyle to prevent heart disease. In other words, eat your veggies, exercise and get a good belly laugh every day," said lead investigator Michael Miller.
Authors of the study noted that the physiological changes they observed were similar to those seen in individuals after engaging in aerobic exercise.
Philosopher and flutist Ilchi Lee believes inspirational stories that motivate are powerful because they point to ways in which individuals overcome their fears and self-imposed obstacles. Additionally, films that manage to inspire while providing comic relief do double duty in influencing positive thoughts.
Negativity and stress have a tendency to cause mental and physical ailments. Results of this study suggest that a good inspirational film may help reverse the effects of daily stressors.
