Fif Fernandes, Certified Laughter Yoga Leader
Ho Ho Ha Ha Ha
In 1995, a medical doctor, Madan Kataria, living in Mumbai India founded Laughter Yoga International. Today there are more than 6,000 laughter clubs in 60 plus countries. So what do the laughter clubs do? They laugh ... for no reason ... with other people ... who laugh ... for no reason. Well, that's not quite true. They laugh on purpose with many purposes. Happiness, health, stress reduction, world peace, friendship, creativity and for the pure joy of laughing.
Research shows that our mind doesn't know the difference between real laughter and simulated laughter. The mind just perceives a good time. Theorist suggest that laughter is an instinctual survival tool for getting along. This theory falls short in explaining the person who laughs alone. Evolutionist are probably more on target when they opine that laughter is believed to have stemmed from the physical contact of the tickle.
Theories and opinions aside, laughing just makes us feel good so it's a good idea to add it to your anti-aging program.
Laugh off Belly Fat
The yoga/body connection to laughter comes from deep, rapid contractions of the belly muscles. You can literally laugh your belly fat off while you tighten the underlying muscles. Practice session start with intentional or artificial laughter and, having sufficiently tricked the mind, the laugher is soon in genuine belly laughter mode.
The natural increase in oxygen intakes expands and flushes toxins from the lungs and, in turn, the bloodstream. Circulation in the lymphatic system is stimulated. The immune system is strengthen both from the physical energization and the serotonin effect. It rejuvenates and heals by increasing the production of T cells, B cells, NK cells and immunoglobulins. Those are the body's warriors that fight infections and diseases such as cancer. Finally, facial muscles are strengthened and wrinkles fade.
One minute of mirthful laugher is the equivalent to a 10 minute cardiac workout on a rowing machine. Dr. Kataria
Not the Mickey Mouse Club
Laughter Clubs are a happiness movement. Independently operated, not-for-profit, non political or religious oriented and definately not competitive, these community-based clubs have no hidden agendas. Training is available from leaders and is minimal in price. Club participation is usually free.
Laughing sessions are done with members standing in a crowd formation type circle with an "anchor" in the middle that leads the group in different types of laughter from the "Hearty Laughter" to "Gradient Laughter." Sessions, lasting about 20 minutes, start with deep breathing and raising the arms to a 45 degree level on the inhale and lowering on the exhale. Laughing is done with members making continued eye contact with another. They are encouraged to move about and make eye and laughter contact with others in the group. They are also encouraged to free their inner child and help other laugh by making funny gestures. Jokes are not offered to avoid any possibility of offense.
With the brain and body now oxygenated, the members start a diaphragmatic chant: Ho-Ho Ha-Ha-Ha while clapping 1, 2 to Ho-Ho and 1, 2, 3 to Ha-Ha-Ha. Laughter bouts are 30-45 seconds and are interspersed with deep breathing and stretching exercises.
Your Daily Practice
A big part of Laughter Yoga is people to laugh with. Healthy, happy relationship makes us healthy and happy. But practice makes perfect so don't reserve yours to club participation. Start your day with a session of 5-10 minutes to ensure good spirits all day long.
Don't think you have time? Consider how much time you spend stressed and frustrated by the day's events. If it's more than 10 minutes, and for most people it is, you'll not only be saving time, you'll be saving your health and happiness. With all practices, start small and work up to your goal. It's important not to use force while laughing; it should feel fun and soon it will be.
****Laughter is contagious feel free to spread yours today****
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