Health maintenance requires more than exercise and a healthy diet. Stress reduction, mindfulness and humor are important additions for optimal health. Norman Cousins cured his debilitating autoimmune diseases with the help of laughter. Laughter increases endorphins, oxytocin and can burn calories to assist in weight reduction. Laughter can reduce anxiety, depression, stress, as well as reducing blood glucose levels, pain perception, and the risk for heart attacks. Learn about humor, how it affects our brain and physiology and its health benefits.