Why Laughing Is One Of The Healthiest Things You Can Do Today

It's no secret that laughter is infectious. Fortunately, laughter may also make us healthier.

That's because studies have shown the behavior is not only one of our earliest forms of communication, but may also be good for the heart -- metaphorically and physically.

In a 2005 study conducted by Dr. Michael Miller, director of preventive cardiology at the University of Maryland Medical Center, it was found that laughter sets off a series of biological events, leading to the widening of the interior lining of the blood vessels. This dilation of the blood vessels is associated with health benefits including increased blood flow and less platelet clumping, National Geographic reported.

"The bottom line of our research is that laughter not only makes us feel good, but has a direct effect on our blood vessels, and our blood vessels control the likelihood of us developing a heart attack or stroke," Miller says in the video above. "So if we keep the blood vessels healthy, then we're going to be healthy."

Additionally, a study conducted by Loma Linda University researchers linked a good belly laugh to decreased stress levels and better memory recall.

So when you watch the video above don't be afraid to let out some deep, guttural hoots because laughter can actually be the best medicine.