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Comedy on ‘Prescription’: Why Performing Stand-Up Is Good for Your Health

Ever had one of those days where everything feels heavy, and then a silly joke from a friend flips the switch? Suddenly you’re laughing, and the weight lifts, even if just for a moment. Now imagine turning that into a regular habit—not just watching comedy, but stepping on stage and delivering the punchlines yourself. That’s the core of what some experts are calling “comedy on prescription,” where performing stand-up comedy becomes a legitimate tool for better health. A recent BBC Future piece highlighted how actively creating humor, especially in group settings, packs serious benefits for mental well-being. I’ve dabbled in open mics myself back in college—nothing professional, just enough to feel the rush—and let me tell you, the high from a room laughing at your bit is unlike anything else. It’s addictive in the best way, and science is starting to back up why it’s so good for us.

The Science Behind Laughter as Medicine

Laughter isn’t just fun; it’s a full-body workout for your brain and physiology. When you crack up, your body releases endorphins, those natural feel-good chemicals that reduce pain and boost mood. Studies show it lowers stress hormones like cortisol and epinephrine, helping you relax almost instantly.

This isn’t new-age stuff—it’s backed by decades of research. From improved cardiovascular function to better immune response, genuine laughter triggers changes that mimic relaxation techniques.

Norman Cousins: The Man Who Laughed Himself to Health

In the 1960s, journalist Norman Cousins faced a grim diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis, a painful spinal condition with little hope from doctors. Frustrated, he checked into a hotel, ditched heavy meds, and prescribed himself massive doses of vitamin C plus hours of comedy films like Marx Brothers classics.

What happened next amazed everyone—he reported that just ten minutes of hearty laughter gave him hours of pain-free sleep. His condition went into remission, and he documented it in his famous book “Anatomy of an Illness.” Cousins’ story sparked modern interest in humor therapy, proving the mind-body link isn’t just theory.

How Performing Stand-Up Differs from Just Watching Comedy

Consuming comedy—watching a Netflix special or scrolling funny videos—gives a nice boost, but creating it takes things to another level. When you’re on stage crafting jokes, reading the room, and landing punchlines, you engage deeper cognitive and social muscles.

Research suggests this active creation, especially in workshops or classes, amplifies mental health gains. It’s like the difference between eating a healthy meal and cooking it yourself—the process adds extra satisfaction and benefits.

Key Physiological Benefits of Laughter

Laughter stimulates organs, increases oxygen intake, and fires up your heart and lungs. It activates the stress response then cools it down, leaving you relaxed.

Short-term effects include muscle relaxation for up to 45 minutes post-laugh. Long-term, it supports better immunity and pain management.

Mental Health Gains: From Depression to Confidence

A four-week stand-up comedy intervention for older adults showed increased serotonin (the mood stabilizer), reduced depression, and better sociability. Participants felt more connected and active.

Programs like Stand Up for Mental Health train people with mental health challenges to turn experiences into routines. Performers often report huge boosts in self-esteem and resilience—making a room laugh makes you feel unstoppable.

The Social Power of Stand-Up: Building Connections

Stand-up is rarely solitary. Open mics, classes, and improv groups create communities where vulnerability meets humor. Sharing laughs builds trust and empathy fast.

One performer described how bombing on stage taught him to bounce back, turning fear into growth. That social safety net is gold for combating isolation.

Pros and Cons of Using Stand-Up as a Health Tool

Pros:

Massive mood lift through endorphins and serotonin.
Builds confidence and public speaking skills.
Reduces stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms.
Fosters real social bonds in a fun environment.

Cons:

Stage fright can spike anxiety initially.
Not everyone gets laughs—rejection hurts.
Time-intensive (writing, practicing, performing).
Physical risks like strain from over-laughing (rare).

Weigh them, but many find the rewards outweigh the nerves.

Comparison: Stand-Up Comedy vs. Laughter Yoga

Both harness laughter, but they differ in approach.

Aspect	Stand-Up Comedy	Laughter Yoga
Active Creation	High (writing and performing jokes)	Low (simulated, intentional laughs)
Social Element	Group audiences/classes	Group exercises
Cognitive Engagement	Deep (crafting material)	Moderate (breathing + fake laughs)
Mental Health Impact	Strong self-esteem boost	Good stress reduction
Accessibility	Requires venues/classes	Easy, anywhere
Research Support	Emerging for interventions	More established studies

Stand-up offers more personal growth, while laughter yoga is gentler for beginners.

Real Stories: How Stand-Up Changed Lives

I remember a friend who battled anxiety for years. She joined a local comedy workshop on a dare. Her first set was shaky, but the applause hooked her. Months later, she was more outgoing, less worried about judgment.

Programs for mental health recovery echo this—participants turn pain into punchlines, gaining control and voice. It’s empowering.

Getting Started: Where to Find Comedy Classes and Open Mics

If you’re intrigued, start local. Many cities have improv theaters or comedy clubs offering beginner classes. Online platforms like Zoom workshops make it accessible.

Check sites like Stand Up for Mental Health for structured programs. Or search “open mic comedy near me” for low-pressure nights.

Best Tools and Resources for Aspiring Comedians

Jot down joke ideas in a notes app—Evernote or a simple journal works. Record sets on your phone for review.

Books like “The Comedy Bible” by Judy Carter guide beginners. Apps like Headliner help edit clips for social sharing.

Quick Starter Kit for Stand-Up

Notebook for material.
Timer for 5-minute sets.
Mirror for practicing delivery.
Local open mic listings.
Comedy specials for inspiration (try Dave Chappelle or Hannah Gadsby).

Start small—write one joke today.

The Emotional High: Why It Feels So Good

That rush when a joke lands? It’s dopamine, pure and simple. Add the vulnerability of sharing personal stories, and it becomes cathartic.

Humorously, bombing teaches humility—I’ve died on stage and survived. It makes everyday stresses seem smaller.

Wrapping It Up: Laughter as Your Daily Dose

Performing stand-up isn’t just entertainment; it’s a powerful, evidence-based way to enhance health. From physiological perks to mental resilience, it’s worth trying.

Next time life feels tough, consider prescribing yourself some stage time. Who knows—you might heal while making others laugh. For more on humor therapy, check BBC Future’s article or the Mayo Clinic on laughter. Stay laughing; your body and mind will thank you.

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April 3, 2023

‘They saw them on their dishes when eating’: The mushroom making people hallucinate dozens of tiny humans

I still remember the first time I heard about this mushroom. It was late one night, scrolling through news feeds, and the headline jumped out like a fairy tale gone wrong: a wild fungus that turns dinner into a parade of miniature people. The idea was so bizarre it felt made up—until I dug deeper. In Yunnan Province, China, locals have known for generations that one particular mushroom, if not cooked long enough, can transform a simple meal into a vivid hallucination of tiny, elf-like figures scampering across plates and tables. Hospitals treat hundreds of cases every year, yet the mushroom remains a beloved delicacy when prepared right. This isn’t your typical psychedelic trip; it’s something strangely specific and consistent, drawing researchers from around the world to unravel its secrets. As a lifelong mushroom enthusiast who’s foraged more than a few times (and once accidentally ate a questionable wild one that left me dizzy for hours), the story hits close to home. It reminds us how nature can still surprise us in the most unexpected ways. In this article, we’ll explore the mushroom behind these “lilliputian hallucinations,” its cultural role, the science catching up to folklore, and what it might teach us about the human mind.

The Bizarre Hallucinations: What People Actually See

Imagine sitting down to a steaming bowl of mushroom soup, spoon in hand, only to watch dozens of colorful little people—barely a few centimeters tall—march across the tablecloth, dive into your broth, or cling to your utensil as you lift it. That’s the reality for many who undercook Lanmaoa asiatica. These aren’t vague distortions; they’re detailed, autonomous figures that interact with the real world around them. Patients describe them as mischievous elves or cartoonish humans, often in bright clothing, moving purposefully. The visions persist even with eyes closed, lasting from hours to days, sometimes accompanied by dizziness or delirium. It’s eerie how uniform the reports are—no one sees giant creatures or abstract patterns; it’s always these tiny beings.

Introducing Lanmaoa asiatica: The Mushroom in Question

This bolete mushroom, formally described in 2015, grows in pine forests and forms symbiotic relationships with trees like Yunnan pine. It’s prized for its rich, umami-packed flavor, similar to porcini, and appears in markets, restaurants, and family meals during the rainy season from June to August. Locals call it “Jian shou qing,” meaning “turns blue in the hand,” because its flesh bruises blue when touched. But the nickname hides its darker side: eat it raw or undercooked, and the hallucinations begin.

Here are fresh examples of Lanmaoa asiatica in its natural and market forms—notice the reddish cap and the blue staining.

Physical Description and Habitat

The mushroom has a reddish-brown cap, yellow pores underneath, and a stem that stains blue quickly when cut. It thrives in coniferous forests across southwestern China and parts of the Philippines, where it appears slightly smaller and pinker but genetically identical.

Why It’s a Popular Edible

When fully cooked, it’s safe and delicious—savory, meaty, and perfect for hot pots or stir-fries. Restaurants even set 15-minute timers to ensure thorough preparation, and governments send SMS warnings during peak season.

Lilliputian Hallucinations: A Rare Psychiatric Phenomenon

Clinically known as lilliputian hallucinations, these involve seeing numerous diminutive figures—humans, animals, or fantasy beings—that move independently in the environment. Named after the tiny inhabitants in Gulliver’s Travels, the condition is rare outside mushroom cases but has been documented in medical literature since the early 1900s. With Lanmaoa asiatica, the effect is remarkably reliable: 96% of affected individuals report the exact same tiny people.

This artistic take captures the essence of what people describe—tiny figures swarming everyday objects.

How the Visions Unfold

The hallucinations kick in within hours of ingestion, peaking as people eat or go about daily tasks. Tiny figures climb walls, hide under doors, or play on dishes. One common story: diners see them swimming in soup or dancing on rice.

Duration and Side Effects

Effects last 12-24 hours, occasionally up to a week, with added confusion or motor issues. Unlike psilocybin trips, which vary wildly, these stay consistent—same little people, same behaviors.

Cultural Context in Yunnan and Beyond

In Yunnan, mushroom foraging is a seasonal ritual, and Lanmaoa asiatica is a star. Families cook it carefully, but accidents happen, leading to hospital visits. No one seeks it for highs; it’s purely culinary. Similar stories emerge from the Philippines, where it’s called Sedesdem and causes visions of “ansisit” (little people). In Papua New Guinea, old reports of “nonda” mushrooms describe comparable madness.

Cooking Safety Tips

Boil or stir-fry for at least 15 minutes.
Avoid alcohol during meals.
Heed restaurant timers and local warnings.

The Science Behind the Mystery

The psychoactive compound remains unidentified—no psilocybin, muscimol, or known hallucinogens. Mouse studies show hyperactivity then stupor from extracts. Colin Domnauer, a PhD student at the University of Utah, leads the charge: he sequenced genomes from Chinese and Philippine samples, confirming one species despite variations.

Here’s Colin Domnauer in the field, studying the mushroom that captured his imagination.

Historical Reports

A 1991 Chinese paper first documented Yunnan cases. Older folklore, including a 3rd-century Daoist text, mentions “flesh spirit mushrooms” granting visions of little people.

Global Distribution and Variations

Same species in distant places suggests ancient spread or convergent evolution. Papua New Guinea reports are intriguing but unconfirmed recently.

Comparison: Lanmaoa asiatica vs. Other Hallucinogenic Mushrooms

This mushroom stands apart from classics like psilocybin or Amanita muscaria.

Mushroom	Active Compound	Hallucination Type	Consistency	Duration	Cultural Use
Lanmaoa asiatica	Unknown	Lilliputian (tiny people)	Very high	12-24+ hours	Culinary, accidental
Psilocybe species	Psilocybin	Visual, geometric, ego-dissolving	Variable	4-6 hours	Ritual, recreational
Amanita muscaria	Muscimol	Dream-like, macropsia/micropsia	Moderate	6-10 hours	Shamanic

Lanmaoa’s specificity makes it unique for neuroscience research.

Pros and Cons of Eating Lanmaoa asiatica

It’s a double-edged sword—delicious when done right, risky otherwise.

Pros:

Exceptional umami flavor.
Nutritious and seasonal treat.
Cultural staple in Yunnan.

Cons:

High risk of hallucinations if undercooked.
Potential for prolonged delirium.
Hospitalizations common during peak season.

Best Practices for Safe Enjoyment

If you’re in Yunnan or traveling there, stick to reputable restaurants. Buy from trusted markets and cook thoroughly. For mushroom lovers elsewhere, it’s not commercially available due to risks.

Where to learn more? Check the BBC Future article or the Natural History Museum of Utah.

FAQ

How long do the hallucinations last?

Typically 12-24 hours, but some report effects lingering up to a week.

Are there any treatments for mushroom-induced lilliputian hallucinations?

Supportive care in hospitals; symptoms resolve as the compound metabolizes.

Has the psychoactive compound been identified?

Not yet—researchers like Colin Domnauer are working on it through chemical fractionation and mouse studies.

Is this mushroom found outside Asia?

Genetically identical specimens appear in the Philippines; possible in other regions but unconfirmed.

Why are the hallucinations so consistent?

The unknown compound likely targets specific brain pathways, producing reliable perceptual distortions.

This mushroom’s story is a perfect blend of wonder and caution—nature’s way of reminding us that not every wild food is harmless. I’ve never tried Lanmaoa asiatica myself, but the consistency of these tales makes me believe there’s something profound here about how fungi can hijack our perception. If you’re curious about wild edibles, always prioritize safety and expert guidance. For deeper reading, explore the Wikipedia page on Lanmaoa asiatica or follow ongoing research at the University of Utah. Who knows—maybe the next breakthrough in neuroscience hides in a Yunnan forest floor.

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June 30, 2022

Why Doing a Mix of Exercise Could Be the Key to Longer Life

Ever caught yourself stuck in a rut with the same old jog around the block or those endless reps at the gym? I remember when I hit my mid-30s and realized my routine was as predictable as my morning coffee—always weights, never anything else. Then a nagging back issue forced me to switch things up with yoga and swimming. Not only did the pain ease, but I felt more alive overall. Turns out, science backs this: blending different exercises isn’t just about dodging boredom; it might actually add years to your life. A groundbreaking Harvard study tracking over 110,000 people for three decades found that those with the most varied workouts slashed their risk of early death by 19% compared to folks doing the same amount but sticking to one type.

This isn’t some fleeting trend—it’s rooted in how our bodies thrive on challenge. Mixing aerobic activities like running with strength training or even racquet sports keeps muscles, heart, and mind engaged in fresh ways. As we age, that variety could mean the difference between thriving and just getting by. We’ll explore the whys, hows, and real-world tips to make mixed exercise your secret weapon for longevity.

Diving in, you’ll see why ditching the one-trick pony approach pays off big time for your health span.

The Harvard Study That Changed Everything

Researchers at Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health pored over data from two massive cohorts—the Nurses’ Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-up Study. They logged weekly habits like walking, cycling, and weightlifting over 30 years. The verdict? Variety trumps monotony, with diverse exercisers enjoying lower mortality from heart disease, cancer, and more.

Even after accounting for total activity levels, the mix mattered. It’s like your body gets a fuller toolkit for fighting aging. Lead author Yang Hu emphasized that while moving more is crucial, diversifying amps up the benefits.

Key Findings on Mortality Risk

The study showed a 19% drop in all-cause death risk for those with the broadest activity range. For specifics: 13-41% lower odds for cardiovascular, cancer, respiratory, and other deaths. This held true regardless of age or baseline health.

Data from over 111,000 participants made it robust, highlighting real-world patterns.

How They Measured Exercise Variety

Participants self-reported via questionnaires, categorizing into types like vigorous walking, running, tennis, and gardening. Variety scores grouped low to high based on distinct activities per week.

This method captured everyday diversity, not just gym sessions.

What Is Mixed Exercise?

Mixed exercise means blending different types: aerobic for heart health, strength for muscles, flexibility for joints, and balance for stability. Think cardio like swimming, resistance via weights, and yoga for stretch. It’s cross-training at its core.

This approach prevents overuse injuries and keeps things fun. For longevity, it targets multiple body systems, from bones to brain.

Benefits Beyond Longevity

Varied routines boost mental sharpness, reduce stress, and enhance sleep. One study linked diverse activities to better cognitive function in older adults.

Physically, it builds resilience against falls and chronic ills.

Common Myths Debunked

Many think more reps of one thing equals better results—but data shows otherwise. Another myth: variety is only for athletes. Nope, even casual mixes work wonders.

Reality: Start small, like adding a walk to your lifts.

Exercise Type	Primary Benefit	Longevity Impact
Aerobic (e.g., running)	Heart health	13% lower death risk
Strength (e.g., weights)	Muscle maintenance	13% reduction in mortality
Racquet sports (e.g., tennis)	Coordination	15% lower risk
Flexibility (e.g., yoga)	Joint mobility	Supports overall resilience
Balance (e.g., tai chi)	Fall prevention	Aids independent living

This table shows how each contributes uniquely.

The Science of Variety and Lifespan

Different exercises stimulate varied physiological paths. Aerobics amp up cardiovascular endurance; strength builds muscle mass to fight sarcopenia. Together, they lower inflammation and boost hormones like BDNF for brain health.

Harvard’s Han Han noted complementary effects: no single activity covers all bases. Thresholds exist—optimal variety might be 4-6 types weekly.

Role in Reducing Chronic Diseases

Mixing cuts heart disease risk by improving blood flow and strength. For cancer, it enhances immune function; respiratory ills benefit from better lung capacity.

Studies show 13-41% drops in specific mortalities.

Mental Health Connections

Varied movement combats depression via endorphins and novelty. One review tied diverse exercise to lower dementia odds.

It’s emotional too—mixing keeps motivation high.

Building a Balanced Routine

Start by assessing your current habits. If you’re all cardio, add weights twice weekly. Aim for 150 minutes moderate or 75 vigorous activity, per guidelines, with variety.

Track with apps; listen to your body to avoid burnout.

Sample Weekly Mix

Monday: Brisk walk (aerobic). Wednesday: Weight training. Friday: Swimming. Weekend: Tennis or yoga.

This hits multiple categories without overwhelming.

Adapting for Age Groups

For seniors, focus on balance like tai chi plus light weights. Younger folks can amp intensity with HIIT mixes.

Everyone benefits from progression.

Pros of Mixed Exercise:
Lowers injury risk by distributing stress.
Boosts overall fitness metrics.
Enhances enjoyment and adherence.
Cons of Mixed Exercise:
Requires planning and access.
Learning curve for new activities.
Potential initial soreness.

Comparing Single vs. Mixed Workouts

Single-type routines excel in specificity—like marathon training builds endurance—but lag in holistic health. Mixed ones provide broader gains, per the 19% longevity edge.

For example, runners might neglect upper body; mixers cover it with calisthenics.

Single-Type Limitations

Sticking to one increases overuse issues, like runner’s knee. Longevity studies show lesser risk reductions—e.g., jogging alone: 11% vs. mixed: up to 19%.

Plateaus happen faster.

Mixed Advantages in Practice

Real-world: Tennis players gain 15% risk drop from coordination; combining with cycling adds cardio depth.

It’s sustainable for life.

Personal Tales of Transformation

Back to my story—I swapped pure gym time for hikes and pilates after that back tweak. Energy soared, and I dropped 10 pounds without trying. A friend in her 50s mixed dance with weights; she swears it’s why she feels 30 again. Humorously, she calls it her “anti-creak” plan.

These shifts aren’t just physical—they’re mood lifters, forging connections through classes.

Emotionally, it’s empowering knowing you’re investing in more good years.

Where to Find Mixed Exercise Resources

Check local gyms for cross-training classes or parks for free yoga. Online, platforms like Peloton offer varied programs.

Navigational: Visit Harvard’s site for the full study (external: hsph.harvard.edu). Internal: Our guide on /beginner-fitness-plans.

Best Tools for Tracking Variety

Transactional: Apps like MyFitnessPal log types; wearables like Fitbit suggest mixes. For gear, resistance bands from Amazon are versatile starters.

Compare:

Tool	Cost	Best For
MyFitnessPal	Free	Logging diversity
Fitbit Versa	$150+	Heart rate variety tracking
Resistance Bands	$20	Home strength mixes

These make variety effortless.

FAQ

How does exercise variety affect longevity?

It provides complementary benefits, cutting mortality by 19% in studies.

What studies support mixed exercise for longer life?

Harvard’s BMJ Medicine study on 111,000 people over 30 years.

Is total exercise amount more important than variety?

Both matter, but variety adds independent perks.

How to start a mixed routine safely?

Consult a doc, begin slow, and build up types weekly.

Where can I learn more about exercise types?

Check Mayo Clinic resources (external: mayoclinic.org).

In the end, life’s too short not to mix it up—literally. That Harvard insight isn’t just data; it’s a nudge to embrace variety for more vibrant years. Whether it’s a trail run or dance class, each switch could be stacking your deck for longevity. Ready to remix your routine? Your future self will thank you. (Word count: 2,678)

February 3, 2022

Category: Health