Roots

The practice of laughter for therapeutic purposes may have began as early as 5,000 years ago with Tibetan Buddhists. In this century, much resurgence of therapeutic laughter is credited to Dr. Madan Kataria, who began public laughter clubs in India, called "Hasya Yoga." Dr. Steve Wilson of "World Laughter Tour" tickled Dr. Kataria's practice into a Western adaptation, and brought it to the United States in the late 90s. Other pioneers in the field are Norman Cousins, Dr. William Fry, and a plethora of comedians and humorists.

Values

When we practice therapeutic laughter in a group setting, we follow these values:

We are non-political.
We are non-religious.
We are non-exploitive
We are non-perfectionist.
We are noncompetitive.
Everyone is welcome!

We strive for every single session to be a safe and inclusive environment for everyone!

how

A typical laughter therapy session can last anywhere from 30-60 minutes, depending on the number of people in attendance and the needs of the group. Every session begins with a welcome, warm up, and precautions. The practice itself utilizes light aerobic exercise, combining exhalations with laughter. This can be a good work out for many of us! Every session wraps up with a rest, self evaluation, and positive affirmations. We take care of ourselves in each session, so we leave feeling great!

contraindications

As with any form of exercise, there are some cautions with the practice of therapeutic laughter. 

Anyone with COPD, recent surgery, abdominal conditions, heart disease, cold/flu, and anyone who is pregnant is advised to abstain, or obtain explicit permission from your doctor.   

who and where

Because laughter is a universal act, Therapeutic Laughter can go virtually anywhere. Community centers, corporate offices, and places of worship may find their sense of teamwork and unity improved. Patients in hospitals and recovery centers, and residents in nursing homes and retirement communities especially benefit physically and emotionally. Inmates, veterans, broken families, and abuse survivors can find relief from trauma. The opportunities to share this uplifting practice are limitless! 

Benefits

Laughter may not be the "best medicine" for all ailments but it is an effective therapy when supplemented to other forms of healing, for body, mind, and spirit. Several medical journals report the healthful effects of laughter: it reduces cortisol, the stress hormone, and increases endorphins, the happiness hormone; it boosts the immune system by producing more bacteria-fighting cells; it helps clear respiratory airways and can improve blood and oxygen circulation in the body. Try a session and see for yourself!