Laughter is the best medicine, right? Well, it turns out that funny jokes can actually have positive psychological, emotional, even physical benefits. That’s right — telling a funny joke can have real-life health benefits, beyond just making your friends smile.

Studies have shown that exposing yourself to funny, lighthearted humor can have multiple positive impacts on your mental health. Laughing, both at funny jokes and in general, has been linked to improved mood, increased optimism, stronger personal relationships, improved self-esteem, and blessed relief from stress and anxiety.

Funny jokes have also been shown to help people stay alert and focused; having a few laugh-filled moments in the middle of a stressful workday can increase concentration and productivity. In fact, research shows that funnier jokes tend to be more memorable than serious ones, indicating that a joke can help you assimilate information more effectively.

But the mental benefits of funny jokes don’t end there. Studies suggest that a good sense of humor can keep you more emotionally balanced — helping you cope more easily with life’s stressful developments. This way, you can take a little time for yourself to share a funny joke and break up the day with humor.

The positive effects of funny jokes also carry over to physical health. We all know that laughter is good for our hearts; scientists have found that a regular dose of laughter can decrease bad cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and improve the overall functioning of our immune systems. This suggests that even writing or hearing a funny joke can help your body relax and recharge.

So, the next time someone shares a funny joke, take a collective breath and embrace its beneficial effects. Laughing your troubles away is more than just temporary relief; it may even bring tangible, long-term improvements to your mental and physical health.