The impact of ancient habits on mood and mental health is underestimated
These good friends don’t seem to be forcing it. But laughter of any kind can have cascading benefits.
There are memorable moments during Labrador season. alone (A History Channel show where competing survivalists are dropped off into a remote wilderness using bows and arrows and GoPros.) A man named Benjy comes out in the middle of a field and starts laughing like a madman. In some ways, this behavior seemed natural, since he had killed a beaver a few days earlier and had been living alone for more than three weeks in the upper reaches of the Canadian wilderness. But eventually, he stopped his laughter and explained himself: He was practicing forced laughter, a therapy technique typical of Chinese art. Qigong. He began building his own shelter, donning his hides and other survival activities, which he said left him feeling refreshed and ready for the day.
Unlike Benji and his northern paradise, the rest of us live and operate in close proximity to other humans. The idea of throwing your head back and pretending to laugh seems trivial and embarrassing. But if you can get past the initial self-judgment, this practice has some real benefits. I will explain.
Introduction to Keshu
Kishu is a traditional Chinese martial art and are closely related. tai chi. However, although more targeted than the latter, both emphasize the collaborative power of breathing, meditation, and movement (a way to recruit talent). airor a person’s “life energy”), spirit You may prioritize repeating certain movements over and over again to regain balance, strength, and confidence in a part of your body.
Example: One of the most popular spirit The program is designed to help “open up” your chest, focusing on the function of your diaphragm, shoulders, and upper arms. This improves airflow to the lungs. tai chi You can get the same result in time, but it’s more like a whole body flow.
Let’s laugh
Kishu Programs that incorporate laughter are highly effective in boosting mood and cognitive function. But don’t just take our word for it.a study A study of elderly residents in long-term care facilities in northern Taiwan found that participants who participated in “Laughing Spirit” twice a week for just one month saw their scores on the “Mini-Mental State Examination” rise. Diminished “Geriatric Depression Scale Score”
Again, it may feel or sound a little weird to try to force a smile when there’s nothing funny in front of you. However, this practice is also similar to yoga (lion breathing is designed to relieve tension in the face, improve blood circulation and brighten the mood). There is also evidence that other “forced” methods, such as humming to stimulate the vagus nerve, activate the parasympathetic nervous system and extend lifespan.
Laughter therapy needs more research, but if it (a) releases endorphins, (b) stimulates lymphatic drainage, and (c) suppresses cortisol levels, it’s worth a try.whether you choose to practice spirit Even if you don’t, incorporate some laughter into your morning routine. If there is no Endless Wilderness nearby, be sure to warn your housemates in advance.
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