Clown Doctors

You have probably heard the old adage "laughter is the best medicine". Medical experts in the USA believe that laughter helps hospitalized children relax and deal with pain.

Many hospitals in the USA, UK and Europe are using Clown Care to make children laugh and to lighten the serious side of hospitals. This is a program involving visits from specially trained clowns. Using comedy, magic, music and juggling, clown doctors distract children during their treatment. They reduse some of the anxiety and fear that many children experience associated with hospitals.

I found some facts on the internet which explains how laughter affects human physiology:

- Reduces pain. Our bodies produce pain-killing hormones called endorphins in response to laughter.
- Strengthens immune function. A good belly laugh increases production of T-cells, interferon and immune proteins called globulins.
- Decreases stress. When under stress, we produce a hormone called cortisol. Laughter significantly lowers cortisol levels and returns the body to a more relaxed state.

(http://psychcentral.com/lib/2006/the-healing-power-of-humor/)

I think using Clown Doctors in hospitals helps children overcome fear and to feel safe during hospitalization.

What is your opinion about Clown Doctors? :)

- Jenny