Laughter Yoga: Is It All It's Cracked Up To Be?

 Are you overwhelmed by things going on in the world, or feeling stressed from work, relationships, illness, or financial issues?

 Maybe you are not dealing with any of that stuff but just want to optimize your health in a fun, easy way. Then formal laughter sessions are for you! 

Laughter is being led in various settings including workplaces, schools, nursing homes, fitness centers, and Zoom across the world. Keep reading to find out more and how I have reaped the benefits from this movement.

How did the Laughter Movement Begin?

The first Laughter Club was started in 1995 by Madan Kataria MD. After coming across research on the benefits of laughter, he decided to start a laughter club in a local park where they shared jokes. Within two weeks they were running out of jokes and funny stories.

 Digging deeper into the research, Dr. Kataria discovered that the brain cannot differentiate between laughing at something funny and laughing for no reason. So he began leading the group with simulated laugher exercises that did not involve comedy or jokes. Since then, it has expanded around the globe!

Why Do Some Call it Laughter Yoga?

Dr. Kataria coined the term "laughter yoga" because it combines laughter with breathing exercises. It usually does not include yogic poses nor require flexibility. No yoga mat is required unless you choose to lie down.

 

What Are the Benefits of Laughter Yoga?

There are physical, emotional, and social benefits to a laughter practice.

·   Improves immune system

·   Enhances your intake of oxygen

·   Decreases stress hormones

·   Increases feel-good chemicals in the body (dopamine, serotonin, endorphins)

·   Improves mood 

·   May ease pain

·   Aids in muscle relaxation

·   Decreases anxiety

·   Decreases depression

·   Helps you feel connected to others

 Benefits in the workplace include: 

•  Optimizes performance

•  Increases innovation and creativity

• Promotes teamwork

• Offers a quick recharge! 

Laughter yoga does not cure disease. And it does not mean you ignore situations that need to be addressed in your life. However, it does help you cope and become more resilient.

You should consult your healthcare provider before participating in any exercise program including laughter yoga.

 

What happens in a Laughter Yoga Session?

A laughter session includes movement, breathing, rhythmic clapping, and laughter. 

There is usually a warm-up with gentle movement, breathing, and a few giggles. It then progresses to more hearty laughter as you act, visualize, and become playful. Deep breathing exercises that promote calm are interspersed throughout the class. The session may end with a guided relaxation.

Each laughter leader has their own style and not all classes are the same.

Participants are encouraged to either sit or stand and are encouraged to stay within their comfort zone and physical limitations. 

Why Do I Practice Laughter Yoga?

In 2020, I was looking for ways to optimize my health as I was beginning to come back to life after a lengthy ME/CFS journey. It was then I came across laughter yoga and began participating in online laughter sessions. Yes, it felt weird at first. I remember thinking, "I hope no one can hear me or see me. If anyone finds out, they will think I'm nuts!" 

 Over time, I noticed increased energy and calm. I could no longer keep this easy, fun laughter routine a secret. In 2022 I became a Certified Laughter Yoga Leader through Laughter Yoga International. Now I am equipped to share the benefits with others.

How to Get Started with Laughter Yoga

Bring the fun and benefits to yourself, friends, family, and your workplace! Search for a laughter club in your area or contact me at LaughterWellnessNow@gmail.com.  I am available to provide in-person and Zoom sessions. 

Having worked in healthcare for decades as an RN, I appreciate the science behind laughter. It is incredible that we are created in a way that we can use laughter to bring about positive changes and reduce the negative effects of stress on our bodies and minds. 

Laughter is actually MORE than what it is cracked up to be! 

Reap the benefits now!  😂

More Info

Stress relief from laughter? It's no joke - Mayo Clinic

The Power of Therapeutic Laughter (curetoday.com)

5 Benefits of Laughter Yoga - Laughter Yoga International

Laughter therapy: A humor-induced hormonal intervention to reduce stress and anxiety (nih.gov)

Remember: It's your body, your health, your life.  YOU are your best advocate!

Best in Wellness,

Marianne  😊

LaughterWellnessNow@gmail.com

 "A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones." (Proverbs 17:22)

"A joyful heart makes a cheerful face." (Proverbs 15:13)

  Share your comments below or contact me directly at  mrbush1990@gmail.com



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"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer." (Romans 12:12)

Disclaimer:  This blog is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.  It does not replace the medical advice of a physician.  The readers should regularly consult with their primary care practitioner in matters relating to health, disease, any symptoms, medications, and supplements. The information on this site is for educational purposes only. It is recommended you speak with your primary care provider before making any changes regarding your health.