The Science of Laughter: Why We Love to Chuckle The Science of Laughter: Why We Love to Chuckle
Laughter is often called the best medicine, and for good reason. It’s a universal language that transcends borders and cultures, bringing joy and connection to people worldwide. But have you ever wondered why we love to chuckle so much? In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating science of laughter, the benefits it brings, and why it’s such a fundamental part of the human experience.
neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This chemical rush is why we often feel so good after a hearty laugh.
The Social Glue: Connecting Through Chuckles
The Biology of Laughter: A Brainy Affair
When you laugh, your brain releases a cocktail of feel-good chemicals. Endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, flood your system, creating a sense of euphoria and reducing stress. Laughter also triggers the release of dopamine, a
Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it’s also a powerful social tool. Evolutionary scientists believe that laughter evolved as a way for early humans to bond and strengthen social bonds.
When we laugh with others, it signals trust and positive interaction, reinforcing social connections.
The Laughter Contagion: Yawns Are Out, Laughter Is In You’ve probably experienced continued on page 10
Restaurants
Summit House Restaurant
Hilltop manor restaurant turning out prime rib, yorkshire pudding & more with sweeping city views.
2000 E Bastanchury Rd, Fullerton, CA 92835
Phone: (714) 671-4111 | Web: summithouse.com
Haven Craft Kitchen + Bar
Popular restaurant/bar serving modern cuisine inspired by local & seasonal ingredients.
190 S Glassell St, Orange, CA 92866
Phone: (714) 221-0680 | Web: havencraftkitchen.com
Francoli Gourmet
Classic trattoria with a Northern Italian menu features an adjoining specialty-foods shop.
100 S Glassell St, Orange, CA 92866
Phone: (714) 288-1077 | Web: francoligourmet.com
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Porch & Swing
Steaks, seafood & other farm-totable dishes in a stylish restaurant with a rustic vibe & a bar.
2010 Main St Suite 170, Irvine, CA
Gabbi’s Mexican Kitchen
Carefully presented entrees & desserts star at this unmarked establishment with upscale cuisine.
141 S Glassell St, Orange, CA
Ironwood
Contemporary eatery featuring creative American cuisine made with garden produce, plus wines.
25250 La Paz Rd Suite 100, Laguna Hills, CA
THE RANCH Restaurant
Sophisticated mainstay features farm-fresh, seasonal steak & seafood meals in an elegant interior.
1025 E Ball Rd #101A, Anaheim, CA
Marché Moderne
Chic French establishment is a popular spot for classic entrees along with inventive small plates.
7862 E Pacific Coast Hwy, NewPort Beach, CA
Bosscat Kitchen & Libations
This industrial-chic spot serving elevated Southern classics stocks an extensive array of whiskeys.
18169 Von Karman Ave, Irvine, CA
Farmhouse at Roger’s Gardens
Rustic, garden-style eatery with upscale, locally sourced American fare, cocktails & regional wines.
2301 San Joaquin Hills Rd, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625
The Beachcomber
A converted cottage houses this beachside eatery serving California favorites & a popular breakfast.
15 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast, CA
The Hobbit
Multicourse French-inspired meals begin in a wine cellar then move up into a refined, homey space.
2932 E Chapman Ave, Orange, CA 92869
EVENTS 2024
Jun 13
Summer Fest Fountain Valley Rock with a jam-packed line-up of live concerts on the Floor & Decor Stage. Soar to new heights as you spin around and upside-down in the Fun Zone where you can enjoy carnival rides and play games for all ages. Taste delicious eats-sweet treats, savory bites, and fest favorites along with out adult beverage options including our signature drink, Summer Smash. Learn more at summerfestfv.net
Jun 16
Baroque Music Festival
Founded in 1981, our yearly Festival presents five concerts over eight days in late June. This Festival provides astounding wealth and diversity of the Baroque era in a wide variety of ways. Large-scale works, with and without singers, are offered during Sunday concerts, while three mid-week programs give the opportunity to enjoy solo recitals and chamber music, all performed by the finest musicians in the historically informed Baroque field. Learn more at bmf-cdm.org
Jun 28
Lions
Club Fish Fry & Carnival
Held since 1945, the event features a parade, carnival, food and car show in Fairview Park. The Fish Fry is presented to help raise money for local schools, clubs, and other organizations in the community. Learn more at cmnh-lions.com.
Jul 3
Festival of Arts
Come discover the Festival of Arts in Laguna Beach- a juried fine art show featuring 140 of Orange County’s top artists in an open-air gallery setting. A world-renowned art destination, visitors can take tours of the exhibit, catch an art demonstration, dine at one of the on-site restaurants, create their own masterpiece, or simply sit back and enjoy the creative
EVENTS 2024
atmosphere. Weekends are jam-packed with live music and special events providing entertainment for all. Learn more at foapom.com.
Jul 6
Pageant of the Masters
This summer, the Pageant of the Masters celebrates 85 years of living pictures in Laguna Beach. This iconic, long-running Orange County tradition combines art-fully costumed people, extravagant sets and theatrical illusion to re-create famous works of art on stage. Learn more at foapom.com.
Jul 19
Orange County County Fair
The annual Orange County Fair is the premier family attraction in Southern California offering a wide variety of exhibits, foods, entertainment, rides and hands-on activities. There is something for everybody at the Fair including the summer headline concert series, working farm and petting zoos, thrill rides, contests, and games. Learn more at ocfair.com.
Jul 20
Ocean Festival
Full weekend of family events Classic Woody Car Show, Surf and Ocean Art Show, Children’s activities. Annual Beach Party and Concert included. Learn more at oceanfestival.org.
Aug 9
Brea Fest
Brea Fest has spotlighted the area’s most outstanding dining opportunities to celebrate the arts in Brea. Guests sample cuisine from over 30 surrounding restaurants, caterers, and beverage vendors. There will also be live bands, theatre performances, artist demonstrations, and exhibits. Market Place of specialty vendors will also be selling their unique goods. There is a small charge for tickets that can be used for food and/or beverages. Admission and entertainment is free. Visit ci.brea.ca.us.
Aug 11
San Clemente Music Festival
A unique family-orientated event with continuous entertainment on three stages. Food booths, contests and games provided by non-profit organizations. Learn more at scchamber.com.
Aug 16
BBQ Music Fest
Award-winning BBQ pitmasters all over the nation (like Australia, Florida, etc.) battle it out against locals for grand title for the Best BBQ and your vote as the People’s Choice Favorite. Trust us, the competition will be intense and the flavors rich in a fierce effort to produce the best that their secret recipes have to offer. You’ve never had BBQ like this before! Pulled pork sandwiches, fresh-off-the-bone ribs, tangy barbecue chicken and many other finger-licking dishes. Learn more at bbqmusicfest.com.
Sep 2
International Street Fair
International foods, crafts, folk dancing and music. Many different ethnic foods and costume. The Street Fair has become known for the variety of food reflecting cuisine from around the world. They provide food, drink, entertainment and crafts to the visitors. Visit orangestreetfair.org.
Sep 7
Rocktoberfest
Set against the vibrant backdrop of the iconic Old World Village, Rocktoberfest is set to deliver unparalleled live entertainment, mouthwatering cuisine & drink, and an atmosphere of pure celebration. Learn more at oldworldhb.com.
Sep 28
San Juan Capistrano Greek Fest
Be Greek for the day! Enjoy authentic Greek food and pastries, live Greek music and dancing, shopping at the Greek bazaar, kid friendly activities
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the phenomenon of contagious laughter. When someone near you starts laughing, you can’t help but join in, even if you’re not sure what’s so funny.
cortisol, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
This contagious nature of laugh ter is thought to be linked to our mirror neuron system, which activates when we observe someone else’s actions or emotions. In essence, when we see or hear laughter, our brains mimic it, compelling us to laugh along.
The Health Benefits: A Chuckle a Day Keeps the Doctor Away
Laughter isn’t just about feeling good; it also offers numerous health benefits. Here are some of the ways laughter can boost your well-being:
Stress Reduction: Laugh ter reduces the production of stress hormones like
Pain Relief: Laughing triggers the release of endorphins, which can temporarily alleviate pain and discomfort.
Improved Immunity: Regular laughter has been linked to enhanced immune function, helping the body fight off illnesses.
Better Mood: Laughter can elevate mood and combat feelings of depression by increasing the release of dopamine.
Strengthened Relationships: Sharing laughs with friends and loved ones fosters stronger social
bonds and increases feelings of connectedness.
The Laughter Prescription: Make Time for Chuckles
Incorporating laughter into your daily life is a simple yet effective way to improve your well-being. Here are some tips to get your daily dose of giggles:
Watch Comedy: Enjoy a funny movie, stand-up comedy show, or your favorite sitcom to trigger laughter.
Spend Time with Funny Friends: Surround yourself with peo ple who have a good sense of humor and enjoy sharing laughter.
Laughter
Find Humor in Everyday Life: Seek out the humor in everyday situations and don’t take life too seriously.
Share Funny Stories: Share funny anecdotes and jokes with friends and family to create laughter-filled moments.
Embrace the Chuckles
Laughter is a powerful and joyful force in our lives. It connects us, reduces stress, and brings a myriad of health
Yoga: Join a laughter yoga class or practice laughter exercises at home to reap the benefits of intentional laughter.
So, the next time you find yourself in the midst of hearty laughter, remember that you’re not just having fun—you’re also giving your brain and body a much-needed boost.
Embrace the chuckles, share a joke, and let laughter light up your life. After all, as the saying goes, laughter truly is the best medicine!
EVENTS 2024-2025
and exhibits featuring Byzantine icons and traditional Greek costumes. Learn more at sjcgreekfest.com.
Oct 4
Oktoberfest
Eat, Drink, Dance & be Merry at Southern California’s best & most diverse Oktoberfest with Oom-Pah-Pa Bands directly from Germany. Sample Imported German Beers, Bratwurst, Rotisserie Chicken, Hamburgers, Pork Sandwiches, Strudel, Pretzels & more. Guests can also enter the Beer Drinking & Stein Holding Contests, and of course do the Chicken Dance! Wednesday through Saturday are adult nights & Sunday’s are family day with Dachshund Races. Learn more at orangecounty.net.
Oct 17
Newport Beach Film Fest
Showcasing more than 350 films from around the world, offering an ambitious and international selection of features, shorts, documentaries and animation that will compete for both Jury and Audience awards. During the week of the festival, screenings are held at several venues in the Newport Beach area. With 15 screens showing films each day, our venue partners provide a fantastic viewing experience for all festival-goers. Learn more at newportbeachfilmfest.com.
Oct 21
Silverado Days
Held each October, this community festival includes food booths, arts & crafts booths, live music and more! Come dressed in period garb and win a prize! Silly contests daily! Pie, watermelon & corn eatin’ contests, best beard, best dressed 1800’s western & this year’s new hillbilly hippie costume contest! Learn more at orangecounty.net.
Nov 28
Turkey Trot
California’s Largest Thanksgiving Day Run Event and one of America’s Most Scenic Runs... hosted by The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce.
Tour the beautiful beach, majestic cliffs and coves of Dana Point. Enjoy pounding surf, rugged cliffs, and cool ocean breezes as you sail through the Dana Point Marina, Doheny State Park and pass the historic tallship Pilgrim moored in Dana Point Harbor. Learn more at orangecounty.net.
Dec 13
Annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade
The parade starts at Collins Island at 6:30 p.m. and will last approximately two and a half hours over 250 ships participate in the parade along with hundreds of water front estates. Providing the backdrop for the parade is the Ring of Lights waterfront home and business decorating competition. FREE for spectators, entry fee for participating boats. Learn more at christmasboatparade.com.
Jan 1 2025
Surf City Splash
Celebrate the New Year with a dip into the chilly Pacific Ocean. Be sure to wear your bathing suit. No wet-suits - that’s cheating! Learn more at surfcityusa.com.
Jan 31 2025
Surf City USA Marathon
This award-winning course is considered one of the best courses in the country and is well known for being scenic and flat. Runners come from all over to experience this exhilarating run. Learn more at surfcityusa.com.
Feb 11 2025
Tacos & Tequila Tuesdays
Frozen margaritas, Mexican candy shots, birria tacos, traditional tacos. If you want delicious food and a good time, this is the spot to do it! Learn more Eventbrite.com.
Mar 19 2025
Master Your Mind, Elevate Your Performance
Imagine no longer feeling burdened by the weight of your responsibilities,
Street food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the sizzle of skewers on a grill, the aromatic spices wafting through the air, and the sizzling woks that create an irresistible symphony of flavors. Here are some of the world’s most beloved street food traditions:
1. Thailand: Mango Sticky Rice ~
In Thailand, street food is a way of life. You can’t visit without savoring pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish bursting with flavors. And don’t forget to indulge in mango sticky rice, a sweet and fragrant dessert that’s the perfect balance of creamy and chewy.
2. Mexico: Tacos and Elote ~
Taco stands are a staple in Mexican street food culture, offering an array of fillings like al pastor, carne asada, and carnitas. Pair your tacos with elote, grilled corn slathered with mayonnaise,
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cheese, and chili powder—a taste explosion in every bite.
3. India: Samosas ~ Indian street food is a flavorpacked paradise. Try chaat, a savory snack that combines crispy fried dough with chickpeas, yogurt, and tangy chutneys. For something heartier, try samosas - deep fried pastries filled with spiced potatoes are a must-try.
4. Vietnam: Banh Mi ~ Vietnamese street food offers a fresh and aromatic experience. Sample a steaming bowl of pho, a fragrant noodle soup infused with herbs and spices. Or grab a banh mi, a delectable sandwich filled with grilled meats, pickled veggies, and a burst of fresh herbs.
5. Greece: Gyros & Souvlaki ~ Greek street food is a Mediterranean delight. Indulge in a gyro, a pita wrap filled with tender slices of roasted meat and topped with tzatziki sauce and veggies. For a quick bite, grab a souvlaki skewer, often made with succulent marinated chicken or pork.
6. Japan: Takoyaki & Okonomiyaki ~ Japan’s street food scene offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Try takoyaki, octopus-filled dough balls drizzled with savory sauces. Or savor okonomiyaki, a savory pancake loaded with toppings like cabbage, pork, and mayo.
7. Morocco: Tagine & Harira Soup ~ Moroccan street food is a sensory explosion. Taste tagine, a slowcooked stew that combines tender meats, vegetables, and aromatic spices. And don’t miss harira soup, a hearty tomato and lentil soup that’s a Moroccan comfort food staple.
8. United States: Hot Dogs/Pretzels ~ Street food isn’t limited to international flavors. In the U.S., you can’t beat the classic charm of a hot dog cart or a soft pretzel stand. Add your favorite toppings and sauces for a taste of American street food tradition.
Exploring global street food culture is like taking a whirlwind tour of the world’s flavors and traditions. Each street vendor, food cart, or bustling market stall offers a unique opportunity to savor authentic dishes and connect with locals. Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant streets of Bangkok or sipping soup in a Moroccan medina, street food is an adventure waiting to be devoured. So, grab a plate, dig in, and let your taste buds take you on a journey you’ll never forget!
THE LGBTQ CENTER OC
The LGBTQ Center OC advocates for individuals’ rights and represent the policy and legislative interests of OC’s LGBTQ community. We have programs for seniors, gay, lesbian, trans, youth, and those living with HIV. The LGBTQ Center OC offers mental health and HIV testing. www.lgbtqcenteroc.org | 714-953-LGBT (5428)
ORANGE COUNTY LGBT PRIDE
Orange County LGBT Pride’s Mission is to Strengthen the Identity of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community within Orange County. We Unite LGBTQ+ People, Empower Them to Live Openly with Pride and Promote Respect for All. Part of That is Celebrating Their Vibrant Culture, Traditions and Enduring Spirit. We Also Help Provide Opportunities to Foster Tolerance, Awareness, Safety and Support in the LGBTQ+ Community While Forging Alliances with the Orange County Public at Large. www.prideoc.com | (714) 869-7392
RADIANT HEALTH CENTERS LGBTQ+ HEALTH AND HIV CARE
Radiant Health Centers provides the LGBTQ+ community medical services that are compassionate and comprehensive while continuing to serve those living with and affected by HIV. radianthealthcenters.org | (949) 809-5700
ORANGE COUNTY EQUALITY COALITION
OCEC was founded by a group of extraordinary individuals who shared the vision of a more just and equitable Orange County. Our vision it to achieve a safe, inclusive, and equitable Orange County for the LGBTQ+ community to the benefit of all. ocequality.org | (714) 248-6530
BRAD BRAFFORD LGBT CENTER ON 4TH
The Brad Brafford LGBTQ Center on 4th is the social hub for the Orange County LGBTQ community. Located in the heart of downtown Santa Ana, (named one of the top 5 great neighborhoods in the U.S.) this venture of the LGBTQ Center Orange County celebrates the culture, art, and lives of the LGBTQ community. (714) 953-5428 | lgbtqcenteroc.org
EVENTS 2025
wasting time and energy, and constantly being on the verge of burning out. With proven strategies, Tammy will show you how to supercharge your life and unlock your true potential. Learn more at eventbrite.com.
Apr 1
Puzzling Adventures Scavenger Hunt
Puzzling Adventures are a cross between a scavenger hunt, an adventure race, and an informative self-guided walking tour. Each adventure consists of a series of locations that you are guided to where you are required to answer a question or solve a puzzle to receive your next instruction. Compete as a group, individually or create multiple teams and race each other. Almost all of our adventures are designed to be wheelchair and stroller friendly and all are carefully crafted to be entertaining and informative with something to appeal to all ages. Learn more at Eventbrite.com.
May TBD
Annual Crawfish Festival
These crimson-colored, freshwater crustaceans are undoubtedly the stars of this festival. They’re more tender than lobsters and have a unique flavor. Master Chefs will prepare true, Louisiana-style crawfish along with Cajun potatoes, corn on the cob, and tangy remoulade dipping sauce. If you are hungry, you can indulge yourself! Dance to rousing music and join the Second Line Dancing Parade a historical New Orleans tradition where people dance with a celebratory spirit. Live entertainment mixes the best Cajun, Zydeco, and New Orleans-style music and so much more! Learn more at crawfishfestival.com.
FINANCIAL ADVISOR
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HVAC
Haven Air Conditioning front cover, 7
PEST CONTROL Kilter Termite and Pest Control 15 TRAVEL
