Friday is National Global Laugh Day.

Laughter is a great form of medicine and stress relief, and that is no joke.

Health care professionals are saying a laugh a day may help keep the doctor away.

A good laugh has long-term and short-term benefits.

Think about the last time you had a good, hearty belly laugh. When I think about it, I can remember thinking, “That felt good,” afterward.

Another benefit of laughter might be weight loss. Depending on your body weight, you can burn 10 to 40 calories by laughing out loud for 10 to 15 minutes a day. That’s about four pounds a year.

Whether you are laughing with friends or at a TV show, laughing improves your health.

Physical health benefits of laughter include:

— Boosts immunity

— Lowers stress hormones

— Decreases pain

— Relaxes your muscles

— Prevents heart disease

Mental health benefits of laughte include:

— Adds joy to life

— Eases anxiety and tension

— Relieves stress

— Improves mood

— Strengthens resilience

Social health benefits of laughter include:

— Strengthens relationships

— Enhances teamwork

— Helps defuse conflict

— Promotes group bonding

Here are some ways to bring more laughter into your life:

— Smile. Smiling is the start of a laugh. Just like laughter, smiling is contagious. When you look at someone or see something even mildly pleasing, practice smiling.

Instead of looking down at your phone, look up and smile at people you pass in the street, the person serving you a morning coffee or the co-workers you share an elevator with.

— Practice gratitude. Make a list of the things for which you are grateful. The simple act of considering the positive aspects of your life will distance you from negative thoughts that block humor and laughter. This will also bring a smile to your face as you count your blessings.

— Share a laugh. Go to a comedy club or invite friends over to play a silly game.

— Make time to laugh. Find a funny movie, sitcom or comedian on TV.

Mark your calendars and give laughter a try on Friday.

Turn the corners of your mouth up into a smile and then give a laugh, even if it feels a little forced.

If you practice something often, it could become a habit.

Shonda Johnston is the Clark County Extension agent for family and consumer sciences. She can be reached at 859-744-4682 or by email at shonda.johnston@uky.edu.