ha, Ha, HA, HAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Is laughter the best medicine? When out with a group of my friends, time flies when we are laughing. Just take a look at the lives of Johnny Carson, Jack Lemmon, Walter Mattau, and Sammy Davis Jr. They seem to have led happier and healthier lives than the average person.

Medical research has shown that laughing can alter levels of neurochemicals, boost the immune system, reduce muscle tension, and improve respiration. In other words, laughter really does make you feel better.

Some hospitals are now experimenting with clowns to speed a patient's recovery and boost morale. These clowns usually use magic tricks, music, games, puppets and bubbles to entertain the children. Once in this atmosphere, the patients usually forget why they are there. Consequently, they occupy their minds with the performances of the clowns.

Although having clowns in the waiting or operating room could be some kind of a nuisance, many patients who have had this experience do exhibit less anxiety. It is common for older patients to listen to their favorite radio stations, read books, or watch television before and after surgery.

In the end, creating a comfortable familiar environment for each patient is important in boosting morale; this may in turn help speed recovery.