Laughter yoga is a new twist on an ancient practice. Not only does it increase happiness, but it also strengthens the immune system, reduces pain and lowers stress. (Not intended for transcendence, but can clear a path in that direction) More contagious than a cough or sneeze, laughter relaxes the whole body. It triggers the release of endorphins, promoting an overall sense of well-being. When combined with yogic breathing, laughter truly becomes the best medicine, providing extensive health benefits for people of all body types.

What is Laughter Yoga?

In the mid-1990s, the Indian physician Madan Kataria developed laughter yoga based on the concept that voluntary laughter could provide the same health benefits as spontaneous laughter. Soon after, laughter yoga spread worldwide, sparking the creation of Laughter Yoga Clubs where people would gather to practice. Instead of using humor, laughter is initiated through creative exercise. Practitioners do not have to master any of the traditional yoga postures. They simply need to laugh. As of 2011, more than 65 countries were home to over 8,000 laughter clubs. How Do You Practice Laughter Yoga? Classes typically start with some socializing and talk about laughter. Next, the group will warm up with some stretching and breathing exercises. Then the laughter games start. Sessions end with silent meditation. During laughter yoga, laughs should come from the diaphragm. Those full belly laughs provide the most benefits. In general, laughter yoga has these four basic steps:

1. Clapping and chanting
2. Laughter yoga breathing
3. Childlike playfulness
4. Laughter yoga exercises

Each step has specific elements. For example, during childlike playfulness, practitioners lift their arms in the air, which helps lift their mood. It can also trigger happy memories or thoughts.

Benefits of Laughter Yoga

Laughing for a sustained period of time is key to reaping the health benefits of laughter yoga. Classes routinely help students laugh steadily for 15 to 20 minutes. The results? Increased oxygen intake and blood flow, improved blood vessel function, and lower blood pressure. This helps protect your heart, boosts energy, dissolves stress and allows you to gain focus. Gendry, the founder of Laughter Online University, describes the value of laughter yoga as a complement to low-impact cardiovascular exercise for seniors. It requires no special equipment or environment, and it’s universally available. Plus, it’s fun and can easily be practiced at home. As Gendry puts it, “In a sedentary age of sharply rising health care costs and mental health challenges, laughter yoga’s benefits and accessibility ought to gain more public attention.”

Laughter Yoga for Caregivers and Seniors

Laughter yoga can promote health and wellness for caregivers and seniors alike.

• Body: It makes you feel relaxed and energized; stress and pain melt away.
• Mind: Your mind becomes sharper and clearer.
• Emotions: You feel more grounded.
• Social: You feel more connected to the people around you.
• Spiritual: It boosts self-esteem, making you feel more at peace and trusting.

Unfortunately, caregivers often neglect their own health in the midst of their caregiving duties. But taking time to laugh, socialize and just breathe can improve their performance on the job. If the senior enjoys laughter yoga too, it’s something they can talk about–and even laugh about–when they’re back together. Have you tried laughter yoga? Please share your thoughts on the experience.