12 Science-Backed Ways Laughter Is Becoming Medicine

A practical invitation: try a week of tiny joy prescriptions

The science suggests laughter offers real, measurable benefits across mind and body. While researchers continue to study long-term clinical effects, we already know enough to try small, safe practices that complement medical care. Here’s a gentle experiment: pick one micro-prescription from this article—two short laughter breaks, a weekly social comedy call, or a daily five-minute funny playlist—and commit for seven days. Keep a simple log of mood, energy, and sleep, and notice whether small shifts emerge. If you have chronic health conditions, share the plan with your clinician so it complements your overall care. Above all, let curiosity guide you rather than pressure. Laughter won’t erase hard things, but when matched with evidence-based care, it adds warmth, social connection, and a low-cost way to support resilience. Try one small moment of joy today. If you like it, make another one for tomorrow.