|
Health 52
Info Tip:
Humor Therapy
Chronically ill or just stressed out? Don’t lose your sense of humor.
Seriously, laughter is known to help patients feel better. Humor therapy is
one type of alternative treatment becoming popular through integrative
medicine programs.
It’s certainly not intended to replace standard medical treatment, but in
combination with medications and treatments like chemotherapy or radiation
for cancer patients, humor can help speed the healing process and lead to an
overall sense of well-being.
Connecticut physician Bernie Siegel has gained international recognition for
his mind-body-spirit approach to working with patients as they learn to cope
with the challenges of chronic disease. The mind/body connection and its
impact on the body's ability to heal is known as psychoneuroimmunology.
Laughter appears to change brain chemistry and may have the ability to boost
the immune system. This is also very important for caregivers who are under
great stress while taking care of a spouse or parent who is chronically ill.
If your medical treatment or daily stress gets overwhelming, find some time
to lighten up, whether it be through old I Love Lucy reruns, memories
of funny times or getting together with someone who always make you laugh.
Sources: webmd, berniesiegelmd.com
|
