What is Laughter Yoga? Laughter Yoga is a unique exercise routine that combines unconditional laughter with yogic breathing (pranayama). Anyone can laugh without relying on humor, jokes, or comedy, and you don’t even have to feel like laughing! Science has shown that the body can’t tell the difference between simulated and real laughter. Laughter Yoga begins with short, fun exercises while maintaining eye contact with others in the group and promoting childlike playfulness and deep breathing. This brings more oxygen to your body and brain, which can make you feel more energetic and healthier. In most cases, this soon leads to real and contagious laughter. Laughter Yoga allows for multiple health benefits, primarily increasing the supply of oxygen, boosting the immune system and mood, and energizing and recharging the metabolism. Dr. Madan Kataria, a medical doctor from India, founded Laughter Yoga with five individuals in a Mumbai park in 1995. Today, there are thousands of free laughter clubs in over 100 countries in which scores of people are taking advantage of the enormous benefits of laughter and are experiencing relief from a variety of stress-related illnesses. Join us for an Introduction to Laughter Yoga class in the Fireside Room, Tuesday, November 10 from 4:30 to 5.
By Nancy Warfield