Patch Adams and the Importance of LaughterLaughter is the Best MedicinePatch Adams believes in the healing power of laughter.Laughter is so important to healthy living that it is being used as laughter therapy. Therapists and physicians have long recognized the importance of laughter and its connection to a healthy body. Laughter, the best medicine, also relieves stress. It exercises the internal organs, increases oxygen to the brain, boosts endorphins, strengthens the immune system, and brightens our moods and outlook on life.
Dr. Hunter Campbell, affectionately known as "Patch Adams", was the inspiration behind the movie of the same name, starring actor Robin Williams. The Patch Adams StoryAfter experiencing many distressing situations in his life such as the death of loved ones, Dr. Hunter Campbell suffered from depression and contemplated suicide.During Dr. Campbell's stay in the mental hospital, one particular patient made a difference by befriending him and making him feel loved. This patient was the person who nicknamed him Patch. After Hunter Campbell was released from the mental hospital, he enrolled in medical school. While in medical school, Hunter visited patients and enjoyed doing funny things and making the patients laugh. In essence, he was actually using a form of laughter therapy! Patch finished medical school and became a doctor. He has continued to use laughter and enjoyment throughout his career with his patients. In addition to using the effects of laughter in his practice, he also founded a hospital, the Gesudheit Institute (1972,) where the doctors work for little money, and the patients are never billed for services. instead of the arrow on the screen. Laughter, The Best MedicineSharing the DreamPatch continues his work and following his dream.Every year Patch takes a troupe of volunteer clowns (no experience necessary) to Russia where they bring hope and joy to hospitals, orphanages and old people's homes. Patch is also an expert speaker on stress management, wellness, laughter and on health care systems. He encourages everyone to be happy as his most popular line is "the most revolutionary act one can commit in our world is to be happy." Yes indeed, a happy person has a stronger immune system and is much less susceptible to illness and disease…. and the many signs and symptoms of stress. According to Dr Adams, laughter really is the best medicine. He is well known for his unusual way of consulting with patients. As a patient you might see your doctor wearing a red nose, dressed as a clown and riding a unicycle. The healing power of laughter and enjoyment is seen throughout the film Patch Adams. Dr. Adams has shown the medical community the importance of laughter and the effects of laughter on healing. And that laughter, truly is the best medicine! If you would like to learn more about laughter therapy, here is a book on laughter yoga , a form of laughter therapy. It will help you learn to release tension easily by being able to laugh--on cue! Patch Adams' Official Website:
www.patchadams.org
Patch Adams to Fun Ways to Relieve Stress Patch Adams to Easy Stress Management
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