Incorporating laughter into mindfulness practices like yoga can do wonders for relieving stress and lifting your spirits. Laughter yoga, which combines movement and breathing exercises to induce laughter, has seen significant growth around the world since its inception by Dr. Madan Kataria in 1995. The practice, designed to promote authentic laughter as a remedy for physical and spiritual well-being, has spawned more than 5,000 clubs worldwide. As a form of exercise, laughter yoga allows people to approach stressful situations with a positive and optimistic outlook, regardless of the need for jokes or humor.
Begin with Humble to Global Phenomenon
What started as a small class of five in Mumbai has blossomed into thriving laughter yoga clubs in Asia, Europe and North America, with large gatherings facilitated by online platforms such as Zoom.Dr. Kataria’s realization that laughter was becoming rare in Mumbai led him to establish the first laughter club, inviting people to join this unique tribe. The initial success of the first meeting spurred daily sessions and prompted the movement to grow exponentially.
Practice laughter yoga
Laughing yoga is usually practiced in groups, ranging from clubs, seminaries, college campuses to senior centers. Trained laughter yoga instructors lead the sessions, which begin with breathing techniques, chanting and clapping. Participants engage in rhythmic applause singing “ho-ho, ha-ha-ha,” accompanied by movements, improvisation exercises, meditation, and childish applause.The goal is to facilitate relaxation, allowing people to release stress and embrace spontaneous laughter.
Benefits of Laughing Yoga in Health
Laughing yoga incorporates stress-reducing activities, such as deep breathing exercises that increase oxygen supply, activate the parasympathetic nervous system, and promote natural relaxation. The simple act of laughing triggers the release of happy hormones such as serotonin and dopamine, reducing cortisol levels, helping to improve mood and boost the immune system. Additionally, the communal atmosphere of Laughing Yoga promotes a sense of togetherness, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
No inconvenience, only happiness
One of the coolest things about Laughing Yoga is that there are no negative side effects. Adopting laughter yoga allows you to smile, laugh and bring more joy into your life. With its power to reduce stress, improve mood and cultivate a positive attitude, laughing yoga is truly the best medicine to lift your spirits and infuse happiness into your life. So let go of your inhibitions, join a laughing yoga class and rediscover the liberating joy of laughter!