Group laughter can synchronize the heartbeats and breathing patterns of everyone involved.

Research conducted at institutions like the University of Oxford and University College London has demonstrated that laughter is a powerful social tool for group cohesion. A study published in the journal 'Evolution and Human Behavior' highlights that laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals, which increases pain tolerance and social bonding. This physiological response is not just internal but can become collective when experienced in a group setting.During shared laughter, participants often mirror each other's breathing patterns and heart rates. This phenomenon, known as physiological synchrony, occurs because the rhythmic nature of laughing forces the respiratory system into a specific cadence. When multiple people follow this same rhythm, their autonomic nervous systems begin to align, effectively putting the group 'in sync' with one another.This alignment serves an evolutionary purpose by signaling safety and trust among group members. Dr. Robin Dunbar, an evolutionary psychologist, suggests that laughter evolved as a form of 'social grooming' that allows humans to bond with many individuals simultaneously. This is more efficient than one-on-one physical grooming seen in other primates. By synchronizing heartbeats, laughter creates a visceral sense of belonging that can even occur between total strangers.