Laughter is one of the human behaviors which are common in all cultures around the world. Individuals laugh during conversations, watching something funny or even when they are exposed to unexpected situations. In spite of the fact that laughter is traditionally related to humor, researchers have found that it has numerous valuable psychological and social applications.
The laughing process starts with the brain. Once an individual faces something funny or unpredictable the brain processes the information and triggers the parts of the brain that deal with emotion, language and social cognition. This makes the body respond physically with laughter and this is because of the signals that are set off.
Among the scientific theories explaining laughter, one of them is the release of endorphins. The brain is what produces endorphins which assist in creating a feeling of happiness and relaxation. As individuals laugh, these chemicals are emitted to the body which could help in reducing stress and enhancing mood.
The physical reactions are also involved in laughter. The facial muscles contract several times and the breathing patterns are altered resulting in the usual sound that is related with laughter. This physical reaction may make intake of more oxygen and enhance circulation, a factor that leads to the refreshing effect that many individuals experience after laughing.
Children start laughing very early in life before they can speak. This is an indication that laughing is an innate act and not one that individuals develop as time goes by.
The interpretation of the reasons that lead to laughter in human beings gives an understanding as to how emotions, communication, and social relationships work.