Sessions
Laughter
Laughter Exercises
The body cannot differentiate between real and simulated laughter. Using many different laughter exercises, the goal is to stimulate the endorphins and decrease stress. The exercise may begin with the simulated laughter- Ho ho hahaha, but end with real laughter. There are different levels of laughter and all are appropriate. The individual’s preference and comfort level determine the depth of the laughter. Standing in a circle encourages laughter because you can see others laughing and hear them, too.
Stretching
Gentle stretches are used in laughter yoga. The stretches are combined with chanting.
Pranayama (Yoga Breathing)
As you extend your body, inhale through your nose. As your breath is released, exhale through your mouth while laughing.
Several different yoga breathing exercises are used throughout a Laughter Yoga session. All have the goal of quickly and easily removing the stale air in the lungs by laughing. The body is enriched with the new inhaled oxygen circulating through it.
Relaxing/Meditation
Laughter Meditation
is calming and allows yourself to turn inwards. Laughing in a group provides encouragement.