(StatePoint) You’ve probably heard the old adage, “laughter is the best medicine.” Well there’s some truth to that. The Mayo Clinic cites a number of health benefits from laughter, such as pain relief, stress relief and an improved immune system.
Indeed, this concept is being applied in a number of ways. In medical care, doctors are even prescribing laughter as medicine in a treatment known as laughter therapy.
Charities are also getting in on the fun. In the world of philanthropy, light-hearted, comedic fun is helping children in poverty. The best part? Anyone can get involved. From now until June 3, 2017, Red Noses are available at all Walgreens and Duane Reade locations nationwide for $1 each, with all profits from all sales benefitting the Red Nose Day Fund. The fund supports programs that help children living in poverty in the U.S. and internationally, working with non-profit organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, charity:water, Children’s Health Fund, Feeding America, Gavi, The Vaccine Alliance, National Council of La Raza, Save the Children and The Global Fund.
To spread the word, Walgreens is inviting people across the country to wear noses on social media, and to tag their photos and posts using #RedNose and #Walgreens on Twitter or Instagram. So, consider grabbing some friends who make you smile, and take a fun and silly selfie for a cause. Additionally, weekly Red Nose challenges can help you raise even more money and awareness.
“One of my favorite things about Red Nose Day is how easy it is to get involved, but if you are looking for ways to do more, there are definitely opportunities,” says blogger, Alexis Middleton of Persia Lou. “First off, be sure to visit Walgreens.com for more information about upcoming events, including fun Facebook live activations every Friday afternoon where you can donate and influence what happens in real time.”
The Red Nose Day campaign will culminate in a night of special television programming celebrating Red Nose Day on May 25 starting at 8 p.m. ET on NBC. For more information on Red Nose Day and how to get involved, follow Walgreens on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
There’s no doubt about it. Humor, laughter and having fun can boost your quality of life; and these days, there’s not only evidence that it’s good for you, there are also opportunities to do good while you’re at it.
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