This gloomy Monday, with the national newspapers carrying photographs that are reminiscent of the dark days of the 1980s, is perhaps a good time to remind everyone that the simple act of smiling can make you feel better. So it came as no surprise to me to see the study showing that a new therapy called yoga laughter can reduce blood pressure. The important thing about this study is that the participants in the programme didn't even have to find anything particularly funny in order for the therapy to lower their blood pressure. Perhaps what this is showing us that, in evolutionary terms, we actually evolved to be nice to each other. And when we all lived in small, isolated communities we had to be - on the surface at least - or life simply wasn't worth living. And it kept us healthy. Perhaps rising levels of obesity are not the only reason for the increase in the chronic diseases of lifestyle. Maybe chronic grumpiness has something to do with it as well. So make today the day you smile at a stranger and laugh about nothing in particular. Cheers and good health!
Bridget Farham Editor https://www.bizcommunity.com