Laughter Yoga: Benefits, Techniques and Why You Should Try It!
You've probably heard the expression: "laughter is the best medicine." What if I told you that there's a practice that embraces this philosophy? Laughter yoga is exactly that: a combination of forced laughter (which quickly becomes natural) and breathing exercises from yoga. A method that not only makes you feel good, but fills you with positive energy. Curious to know more? Let's get started!
What is Laughter Yoga?
Laughter yoga was created in the 1990s by Dr. Madan Kataria, an Indian physician who was looking for a way to reduce stress and improve the overall health of his patients. His genius idea? Combining forced laughter, which is as stimulating as natural laughter, with yoga-inspired breathing, relaxation, and wellness exercises.
The principle is simple: your brain does not differentiate between a "voluntary" laugh and a spontaneous laugh. So, even if at first you force it a little, very quickly, laughter becomes contagious and sincere! And that's when the magic happens: you find yourself laughing out loud with others, while strengthening your well-being.
The benefits of Laughter Yoga
Laughing is good for you, and laughter yoga proves it to you with its many benefits, both physical and mental!
Physics
When you laugh, your body kicks in!
- Your diaphragm works, which improves your breathing and better oxygenates your body.
- Laughter lowers your cortisol (the stress hormone) levels, so you feel more relaxed.
- It boosts your immune system, making you more resistant to disease.
Psychological
- Laughter yoga releases endorphins, those famous happy hormones, which boost your morale.
- It helps combat anxiety and depression, creating a moment where you focus only on pleasure and lightness.
- It allows you to de-dramatize and take a step back from your problems.
Social
- A laughter yoga session is above all about sharing! You laugh with others, and this social contact strengthens bonds and spreads positive energy.
- It's also a great way to break the ice in a group, as everyone ends up letting go together.
How does a Laughter Yoga session take place?
You don't need to be a born comedian to get started with a laughter yoga session. Here, laughter is an exercise that is learned and shared. Here's how it works:
Warm-up
We start gently with greetings, stretching and breathing exercises. We get comfortable and prepare the body.
Laughter exercises
Then, let's laugh! There are several games or techniques to provoke laughter in the group. It can start with a "hello laugh", where everyone greets each other by laughing, or simple games that trigger hilarity. The more it goes on, the more natural and contagious laughter becomes.
Final relaxation
The session ends gently, with relaxation to calm the body and mind, and return to a state of serenity. We leave feeling zen, but with a smile on our lips!
Why integrate Laughter Yoga into your routine?
In our often stressful world, laughter yoga is a breath of fresh air. A few minutes of laughter can do wonders for your state of mind and your overall health. Here's why you should incorporate it into your life:
- Easy and accessible : No equipment or prior experience required, everyone can do it!
- Instant Boost : From the first minutes, you feel lighter, as if all the weight of your worries had disappeared.
- Stay in shape : Laughing is an exercise in itself, which tones muscles, improves breathing and boosts blood circulation.
- Mental well-being : A regular session helps reduce your daily stress, making you calmer and happier in the long run.
Where to practice Laughter Yoga?
Laughter yoga has taken off all over the world! If you want to give it a try, there are several options available to you:
- Laughter Yoga Clubs : More and more cities have clubs where people can come together to laugh together.
- Online workshops : If you prefer to stay at home, there are virtual classes, or even videos on YouTube, to get started from your living room.
- With friends or family : Why not organize laughter sessions at home with those you love? Not only will it create lasting memories, but you will come out even more relaxed.
