Laughter yoga is a relatively new form of yoga that combines yoga breathing and playful laughing exercises. It has exploded in popularity in recent years, as more and more people are discovering the surprising health benefits of this relatively new form of yoga. Laughter yoga is based on the belief that laughing is not only good for the soul, but it can also help improve overall physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.
The idea behind laughter yoga is simple: it encourages participants to laugh out loud, even if there is no reason to do so. This might sound strange or even a little silly, but research has shown that regular laughter can actually improve overall health and well-being. Studies have found that laughter increases endorphins (the body’s natural feel-good chemical) and reduces stress hormones, which can help with relaxation and improved mood. Laughter also helps to reduce anxiety and depression levels, as well as boost the immune system.
Laughter yoga can also help to improve cardiovascular health. Laughing increases the heart rate and blood flow, while also reducing blood pressure. This can help to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Laughter can also help to improve lung function, as it increases the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream.
In addition to its physical benefits, laughter yoga can also help to promote emotional wellbeing and social connection. Laughing with others helps to promote trust, reduce stress, and can even help to overcome difficult conversations. It also helps to reduce feelings of isolation, promote positive thinking and increase self-confidence.
Finally, laughter yoga can also help to improve overall mental health. Studies have shown that it can help to reduce negative thinking patterns and even improve cognitive functioning. It can also help to increase creativity and focus, as well as reduce feelings of burnout, fatigue, and stress.
Overall, laughter yoga is a great way to improve physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. It can be done anywhere and anytime, and it is a great way to connect with others and have some fun. So the next time you’re feeling stressed out, take a few minutes to laugh and reap the surprising benefits of laughter yoga!
