How Laughter Therapy Relieves Stress and Boosts Wellbeing

Jonathan Lee|Wellness|September 8, 2025

Photo by Patrick Fore on Unsplash

Introduction: Why Laughter Therapy Matters

Laughter is more than just a spontaneous reaction to humor-it’s a therapeutic tool with measurable benefits for mental and physical health. As stress has become a common challenge in modern life, many individuals seek effective, drug-free methods to manage tension and improve wellbeing. Laughter therapy, a structured approach to using laughter as medicine, has emerged as an accessible and enjoyable way to reduce stress and support overall health. In this article, you’ll learn the science behind laughter therapy, its key benefits for stress relief, and actionable guidance for integrating this approach into your daily routine or workplace wellness program.

The Science Behind Laughter Therapy

Laughter therapy, also known as humor therapy, involves the intentional use of laughter exercises, activities, or humor-based interactions to promote psychological and physiological health. Dozens of clinical studies have investigated the effects of purposeful laughter on stress and related health outcomes. According to a systematic review and meta-analysis published in
PLOS ONE
, spontaneous laughter interventions were associated with a significant reduction in cortisol-the hormone most closely linked to stress-by approximately 32% compared to control activities. Remarkably, even a single session of laughter could reduce cortisol levels by up to 37% [1] .

Another review found that laughter therapy not only lowers stress hormones such as epinephrine and cortisol but also enhances immune function and increases the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which are associated with mood elevation and relaxation [2] . These findings demonstrate that laughter directly influences the body’s stress response systems, as well as psychological wellbeing.

Key Benefits of Laughter Therapy for Stress Relief

1. Immediate Stress Reduction

Laughter provides an immediate sense of relaxation and relief from tension. As reported by Harvard Medical School experts, laughing lowers cortisol levels and triggers the release of mood-boosting chemicals, helping to alleviate both physical and emotional symptoms of stress almost instantly [3] . This rapid reduction in stress can be especially valuable during high-pressure situations or after a challenging day.

2. Enhanced Mood and Emotional Wellbeing

Regular laughter therapy sessions have been shown to stimulate the production of dopamine and serotonin, which can counteract anxiety, support positive emotions, and improve resilience against stressors. Frequent laughter may also help individuals regulate mood and develop a more optimistic outlook over time [4] . Clinical studies indicate that laughter therapy can significantly reduce symptoms of depression and insomnia, further supporting overall emotional wellbeing [5] .

3. Physical Health Improvements

Laughter is not only a psychological intervention-it also supports physical health by lowering blood pressure, improving vascular function, and enhancing immune response. Some studies report increased natural killer (NK) cell activity, which plays a role in defending the body against illness. In older adults, laughter therapy combined with exercise has been linked to improvements in bone mineral density and blood sugar regulation [5] .

4. Social Connection and Support

Engaging in laughter therapy with others-whether in group sessions, workplace programs, or informal gatherings-can foster social bonds and create a sense of belonging. Social laughter helps reduce feelings of isolation, promotes supportive relationships, and may further buffer individuals from stress-related problems [4] .

How to Access and Implement Laughter Therapy

Step-by-Step Guidance

If you’re interested in experiencing the benefits of laughter therapy for stress relief, there are several accessible ways to get started:

Participate in Laughter Yoga or Group Sessions: Many community centers, wellness clinics, and senior centers offer laughter yoga or group laughter therapy sessions. To find a local class, search online for “laughter yoga near me,” check community bulletin boards, or ask your healthcare provider for recommendations. The Laughter Yoga International website maintains a directory of certified leaders and clubs worldwide.
Incorporate Laughter in Daily Routine: You can integrate laughter into your daily life by watching comedy shows, listening to humorous podcasts, or spending time with friends who make you laugh. Intentionally setting aside time for laughter-even just 10 minutes a day-can contribute to lower stress over time.
Organize Laughter Therapy in the Workplace: Employers interested in promoting staff wellness can invite certified laughter therapists to conduct group sessions or workshops. Contact professional wellness providers or search for “corporate laughter therapy” for options and reviews.
Explore Online Resources: If in-person sessions are not available, many laughter therapy exercises and guided videos can be found on established platforms such as YouTube or through reputable health organizations. Always verify the credentials of the provider before participating.
Consult with Healthcare Professionals: For those managing chronic stress or mental health concerns, speak with your primary care provider or mental health specialist about integrating laughter therapy into your overall care plan. They may be able to suggest evidence-based programs or refer you to appropriate community resources.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

While laughter therapy is generally safe and beneficial, some individuals may feel self-conscious or skeptical about intentional laughter exercises. To overcome these challenges, consider starting with private sessions or online resources, and gradually invite trusted friends or family to participate. Remember, genuine laughter often emerges naturally as comfort and confidence increase.

For those with certain medical conditions (such as hernias or recent abdominal surgery), consult a healthcare provider before beginning laughter-based exercises, as intense laughter could temporarily increase intra-abdominal pressure.

Alternative and Complementary Approaches

Laughter therapy can be combined with other stress management techniques for enhanced results. Practices such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing, regular physical activity, and social engagement also support stress relief. Many wellness programs encourage participants to incorporate multiple strategies tailored to individual needs and preferences.

Real-World Examples and Success Stories

Case studies from clinical settings and community programs show that laughter therapy can be successfully implemented across diverse populations. For example, older adults participating in a three-month laughter and exercise program experienced improved general health, better sleep, and reduced anxiety and depression symptoms [5] . Workplace wellness programs that included regular laughter sessions reported increased employee satisfaction and decreased burnout rates.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

Laughter therapy offers a scientifically supported, enjoyable, and accessible method for reducing stress and enhancing overall wellbeing. While it is not a substitute for clinical treatment in cases of severe mental health issues, it provides a powerful complementary tool for managing everyday stress.

To get started, consider searching for local laughter therapy groups, exploring online guided sessions, or simply making time for humor and joy in your daily life. For more information, you can consult reputable health organizations or speak with a qualified healthcare provider about available programs in your area.