"Laughter stimulates your immune system," says Dan Gascon, a certified laughter leader and president of the Canadian Humour for your Health organisation. "There is extensive research which shows how laughter releases endorphins into the brain. According to a recent study, laughter is the only natural way your organs get a massage. It is also a principle element in the digestive process. Simply, your body needs it."

A 1998 Loma Linda University Medical Centre in California study found that humour:

• Decreases levels of stress hormones such as adrenaline.
• Helps lower blood pressure.
• Boosts immunity by raising levels of antibodies such as T-cells.

Stanford University research indicates that a good laugh:

• Stimulates circulation.
• Makes you more alert.
• Exercises the skeletal muscles.
• Has the same cardio respiratory response as 10 minutes of strenuous rowing - but you only have to laugh for 10 seconds.

What does humour do for a social situation?

A good guffaw can also lighten up just about any situation. "Humour is a social lubricant," says Steven Sultanoff, a humour therapy specialist. "We like to laugh because it feels good, and we like people who make us laugh. As a result we feel emotions like joy and happiness, become more energised, and are open to the development of new relationships."

So what are you waiting for? Laugh away.

Judy Chong, Head Foodie