Stories linking laughter to longevity have been told for thousands of years. Democritus, an ancient Greek philosopher famously known as the “laughing philosopher,” was renowned for approaching life with humor and rationality despite its absurdities or hardships. Democritus is said to have lived an exceptionally long life, with some sources reporting he lived up to 90 years, while others suggest he reached the age of 109.
That ancient tale gains credence as modern scientists examine what laughter does to the body. Research suggests that laughter triggers a series of changes in the body that can have long-term benefits and may also play a role in helping you live longer.
