Go ahead. Humor me.

Everyone knows the adage "Laughter is the best medicine." But what does this mean exactly? Can laughter treat physical ailments, or is this saying just referring to our emotional well-being? If laughter can truly impact our health, why is depression so prevalent in today's society? I had to find some answers.

Several studies have been conducted in order to research the health benefits of laughter.  This research has shown that laughter evokes healthy physical changes in your body.

One study found that bosses who have a good sense of humor are viewed as more effective by their employees. People are more likely to be successful when there is laughter in the workplace. The positivity that comes with good humor can increase oxygen, endorphins and blood flow. Laughter has the ability to recharge and energize, and this gets the creative juices flowing. Productivity can excel after a break room joke or two.

At Vanderbilt University, a study showed that 10 - 15 minutes of laughter can burn 10 - 40 calories. This finding doesn't mean that we should throw away our tennis shoes, but laughter is a great supplement to our exercise routine.

Another study conducted at the University of Maryland found that our emotions can have an effect on blood flow. Healthy, non-smoking volunteers were asked to watch a segment from a drama such as "Saving Private Ryan" or a segment from a comedy such as "King Pin".  Blood vessels relaxed and expanded during the comedy and increased blood flow by 22%. During the drama, blood vessels tensed up and decreased blood flow by 35%.

Here are some more benefits of laughter:

• strengthens the immune system
• reduces pain
• decreases stress hormones
• releases endorphins
• improves cardiovascular system
• enhances relationships
• promotes positive attitudes

One of the best things about laughter is that it's free.  Forget spending 80 bucks for a masseuse. A hearty, belly-laugh relieves stress and relaxes muscles up to 45 minutes afterwards.

If you're not the one who typically cracks the jokes, find a way to get laughter into your life. Hang out with people who are funny; watch a funny movie or tv show; go to a comedy club; play with a child. Make sure you get a healthy dose of laughter each day.

In The Quantum Wellness Cleanse, Kathy Freston writes an entire chapter devoted to 'divinization' which she describes as "human participation in creating the better world that is inevitably coming." I, for one, believe that laughter is key to creating a better world around us.