In this two-minute read, we look at why laughter is so crucial during tough times.

There's a lot of uncertainty in the world now.

But one thing you can be sure of, is that someone, somewhere, is making the most of life and having a bit of a giggle.

And that's a wise move, as laughing during times like these is not just good for the mind, it's great for the body.

Medical research has shown that having a good chuckle has several immunity-boosting benefits.

Researchers found that it stimulates organs, because you take in more oxygen when you are belly laughing. It also fires up then cools down your body's stress responses, leaving you feeling more chilled out.

It also soothes tension by increasing circulation and helping muscles relax. Remember how good you felt after something had REALLY made you laugh.

Long-Term Benefits

The pandemic has highlighted the importance of a healthy immune system. Along with exercise, a proper diet and plenty of sleep, laughter is up there when it comes to making us more resistant to bugs, viruses and ailments.

According to scientists in America, the long-term effects of laughter include improving your immune system. This is because negative thoughts create chemical reactions in the body, wearing us down. But laughter and positive thoughts can release something called neuropeptides, which combat stress and potentially more serious illnesses.

No Sense of Humour? No Problem

Let's face it. Some people were absent from the queue when a sense of humour was being handed out. Maybe you know someone like that? The good news is humour can be learned, meaning the joys of laughter needn't be exclusive to people with a lighter, brighter disposition.

Here are two ways people can lighten up and have a laugh.

Consider laughter yoga (we're not joking). It's where people practise laughing in a group. It's faked laughter at first but can soon develop into genuine howls of hilarity.

Show me the funny – make time to share a giggle with friends and family who are always game for a laugh. Their mirth will rub off on you according to the medical boffins.

As estate agents, we need a sense of humour, and this article wouldn't be complete without a joke.

So, here's one from Olaf Falafel, who won the best joke award at last year's Edinburgh comedy festival with this gag.

"I keep randomly shouting out 'Broccoli' and 'Cauliflower' – I think I might have Florets."

Thanks for reading and if you have any serious (or silly) property questions, feel free to ask us. We're here to help people move successfully across Kent.