"An Appointment with the Doctor"

One of the pleasurable duties I have as an MP is to go to the various Carol Services at this time of year.
Recently, one carol being sung was a particular favourite of mine .. 
     "While shepherds watched their flocks by night .."
but sung to the tune of 'On Ilkley Moor ..' - which works extremely well - and achieved the accolade of a mention on the "Today" programme on Radio 4 (15th December).

This combination reminds us of the real meaning of Christmas .. 
while producing as much 'fun' as when singing "The Twelve Days of Christmas" !

Remember the 'Therapeutic Benefits of Laughter'

Dr. Lee Berk and fellow researcher Dr. Stanley Tan of Loma Linda University in California have been studying the effects of laughter on the immune system. 
To date their published studies have shown that laughing 

• lowers blood pressure, 
• reduces stress hormones, 
• increases muscle flexion, 
• boosts immune function by raising levels of infection-fighting T-cells, 
  (disease-fighting proteins called Gamma-interferon and B-cells, which produce disease-destroying antibodies) 
• triggers the release of endorphins
  the body's natural painkillers, &
• produces a general sense of well-being.

So, for a happy and healthy Christmas .. and for the years to come .. The Doctor's prescription is .. more FUN & LAUGHTER !

Dr. Richard Taylor

Updated _ 24-Dec-2009

© Independent Kidderminster Hospital & Health Concern 1995-2010
(webdesign@chaddesley-corbett.co.uk)