Are you feeling stressed out about your ensuing big day nuptials? Believe it or not, stress-busting may be as simple as stocking up on candy and having an old-fashioned giggle-fest with a girlfriend! OK, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love the sweet stuff? (Like we really needed an incentive to eat more.) “With so many people continually stressed and feeling like things are out of control, candy can have an enormous impact on how you feel,” explains David Vivenes, Director, Candy, Cadbury Adams Canada. “We know that candy, more than any other treat, helps millions of Canadians feel like kids again because it reminds them of a more relaxed, simpler time in their lives.” Vivenes says there’s a definite correlation between candy and fun. So next time you find yourself booked with a hectic day of gown fittings and reception hall go-sees, pack a little candy in your purse for a sweet break from reality. “It’s an easy way to get a little bit more out of your day. It is as simple as having a handful of candy,” adds Vivenes.
And where does laughter fit into this? As the old saying goes, laughter is the best medicine, according to the experts at Maynards Candy. One of the most effective ways to lower stress, reduce anxiety, increase self-esteem and boost our immune system is to laugh more regularly. In fact, research has found that increased laughter can help keep us physically and psychologically healthy. While children laugh approximately 400 times per day, adults are only giving in to about 15 giggles.
The experts at Maynards Candy offer the following solutions to help us laugh a little more. Really, we could all use a good chuckle.
Ten reasons to laugh:
1. It’s free!
2. It alleviates pain.
3. It brings a happy glow to your face.
4. It diffuses fear, anger and boredom.
5. It fights the signs of aging by toning facial muscles and expressions.
6. It reduces snoring.
7. It helps control high blood pressure and heart disease.
8. It increases stamina through increased oxygen supply.
9. It builds trust.
10. It makes you feel good and look good, too!
Maynards’ prescription for a laugh a day:
1. It’s okay to fake it. The human brain cannot distinguish between real and fake laughter – you still reap the healthy benefits!
2. Make a silly face.
3. Subscribe to an online daily joke service.
4. Join a laughter “hasya” yoga class.
5. Share some candy with a friend.
6. Tell a joke to somebody else.
7. Pass on a funny story to a friend.
