International Moment of Laughter Day will be celebrated Sunday, April 14. The event was created by humorologist Izzy Gesell to encourage people to laugh, guffaw, chuckle, and giggle because, medically speaking, it’s good for you.

A link between laughter and healthy function of blood vessels was first reported in 2005 by researchers at the University of Maryland Medical Center. They found that laughter increases blood flow, strengthens the immune system, boosts mood, diminishes pain and protects you from the damaging effects of stress. 

The Villages was named the No. 1 place to live for pickleball by Masters Athlete Magazine. The sport is wildly popular with seniors because it offers a fast-paced physical and mental challenge with minimal injuries. The Villages has several pickleball clubs with certified instructors. For rules and information, go to usapickleball.org or thevillages.com.

Fermented foods have been a part of the human diet for almost 10,000 years and can bolster the gut microbiome, creating a healthier mix of microbes and strengthening the walls of your intestines. Once ingested, nutrients and microorganisms from fermented foods can survive to interact with the gut and are considered an important element of the human diet.

Being in recovery from alcohol and drug dependence can be daunting, but many celebrities have been a source of inspiration, helping struggling addicts cope. In particular several female celebrities in recovery have been known to lend their influence on awareness of sober women’s programs and addiction treatment.

Having manicured nails is more popular than ever, but before you entrust your mani to just anyone, make sure you research the salon or get a solid recommendation. The four most popular types of nail treatments are:

Mountain biking can be physically demanding so it’s critical to choose trails that match your experience level. Santos Trail provides options for every skill level, so it won’t be hard to find one that works for you. Santos Trailhead is open from 8am until sunset, 365 days a year. There is no admission fee for day use. Camping in the developed campground is $22 a night plus a reservation fee of $6.70. For RV camping, there is also a nightly utility fee of $7, which includes water, electric and sewer. Located at 3080 SE 80th St., Ocala. Call 352.369.2693 for more information. 

Tea, the most consumed beverage worldwide, has incredible health benefits. Both green and black tea contain high levels of antioxidants that when brewed can help prevent cell damage. The tea with the highest level of antioxidants is hibiscus. 

You can choose from wide varieties of teas at Erika’s Tea Room, located at 787 W. Montrose St., Clermont or at The Spice & Tea Exchange of Mount Dora, located at 431 N. Donnelly St., Mount Dora. For more information about Erika’s Tea Room call 908.670.2305 or visit www.erikastearoom.com. For more information about The Spice & Tea Exchange call 352.729.6762 or visit www.spiceandtea.com.

As we get older, we become less flexible, which impacts our ability to move comfortably and without pain. Many of us come to terms with debilitating conditions, like arthritis and rheumatoid low back pain by taking medication or ignoring the problem, but there’s another avenue you should consider.