Talkoftown’s Blog
Sharyn Mayer…..my two cents
Laughter Yoga…..I’m a big proponent of laughter ‘” always have been. I truly believe it makes a person feel better and that “laughter is the best medicine.” The medical community believes it as well, because they often talk about the benefits of laughter and its impact on our physiology.
I first heard of laughter yoga, when home one day from work, I just flipped on the NATE BERKUS SHOW, and Nate was participating in one of the classes. What is it, you ask? It is an exercise routine, started by Dr. Madan Kataria, a physician in Mumbai, India back in 1995. There are now more than 6000 of these groups in over 60 countries.
Laughter Yoga combines laughter (for no particular reason) with yoga breathing. Dr. Kataria maintains that anyone can laugh for no reason, without relying on humor, jokes or comedy. Laughter is simulated as a body exercise in a group; with eye contact and childlike playfulness, it soon becomes very real and contagious. “The concept of Laughter Yoga is based on a scientific fact that the body cannot differentiate between fake and real laughter. One gets the same physiological and psychological benefits.”
These clubs are considered social clubs, free to all that join. There are no forms to fill out, no membership criteria and no agenda; political, religious or otherwise. The clubs are run by volunteers who are trained as laughter yoga teachers.
This concept has taken on a life of its own; permeating schools, the business community; senior organizations, cancer groups, prisons and in communities for those with physical and mental challenges.
Some things to keep in mind as far as the health benefits of laughter would be:
Per the medical website, WebMD.COM — “A growing body of evidence shows that laughter can reduce stress, stabilize blood pressure, and boost the immune system.”
It stimulates the brain, expands the blood vessels, can reduce blood pressure
Sustained laughter can increase the levels of cytokine in the blood ‘” this is a white blood cell enhancer that builds antibodies in our system to prevent illness.
Laughter is considered by some to be a form of stationery jogging, providing the same health benefits as a vigorous aerobic workout, increasing circulation and releasing endorphines in the body.
Laughing supposedly works at least 15 facial muscles eradicating the need for any anti-aging pills or creams.
Best of all? After a good laugh, who doesn’t feel great???!!!
