Laughter Yoga
Really? Yes, really!
You’ve heard that laughter is good medicine.
Just from your own experience you know that you feel good when you laugh. More relaxed, happier, more present.
The act of laughing itself creates endorphins, those feel-good hormones.
Remember, we mentioned before that the word ‘endorphin’ is made from 2 words. “Endogenous,” meaning from within the body. And “morphine”, an opiate pain reliever. Endorphins are our own natural pain reliever.
- Alleviate depression
- Reduce anxiety
- Boost self-esteem
- Regulate appetite
- Help you deal w childbirth pain
- Boost immune system
So, it is true. Laughter really is good medicine. It stimulates our brain, our immune system and our nervous system. It increases blood flow by 50%.
Right. But what is there to laugh about day to day, especially these days?
Have you heard of Laughter Yoga?
I thought it sounded a little crazy at first. Kind of silly. Plus, laughing on demand would be hard, wouldn’t it?
Turns out it isn’t so hard after all. And you can fake it ‘til you make it.
Your body doesn’t recognize the difference between fake and real laughter. So you derive the benefits even if you fake it. But chances are that somewhere along the way, your laughter becomes real.
Here are 6 Quick Laughter Yoga Exercises…
I encourage you to give it a try. The video is only 2 minutes. And you will feel good when you are done!
But if you really want to have fun, try this Bollywood Laughter Yoga Dance Video. It is my favorite! The man in it is the one who developed Laughter Yoga.
Life can be full and challenging at times. I know this past year has had extra challenges for many. I am always telling clients they need to play, and have fun more. What better than to laugh more?
Laughter, play, fun and pleasure are an important part of life and an important part of a healthy life style.
I do believe that we are meant to enjoy this life, not just drudge through it.
Are you laughing, playing, having fun, deriving pleasure in your daily life? You may have to create an intention around this in order for it to happen. Laughter yoga is one option to quickly brighten up your day. An easy way to strengthen immune functions, bring more oxygen to the body and brain, foster positive feelings and improve interpersonal skills.
Give it a try! And share with someone you care about who could laugh more.
Please get in touch if I can help you get healthier and happier.