Laughter is the Best Medicine

My wife is so concerned that any sudden movements or jolting of the baby could be hazardous to his health.  To this end, she gets on to me every time I make her laugh.  Well, yesterday, we asked the doctor about stomach contractions, especially in the form of laughter, and she started chuckling.  She said it is actually good for my wife, as it not only helps relieve stress, but is also euphoric for the baby.

Apparently, stress during pregnancy can greatly shape a child's temperament later in life.  Women with lower levels of stress have been proven to have children with lower levels of anxiety and the ability to better cope with stress later in life.  Women with higher levels of stress have been proven to have children with greater chances of depression.  Physically, laughing makes the baby bounce up and down in a uterine trampoline.  And who doesn't like bouncy castles?!  Am I right?

So, I have taken it as my personal mission now to make her laugh as much as possible!  My son can thank me later for the awesome ride.  I guess laughter truly is the best medicine.