Calgary Laughter Yoga
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What is Laughter Yoga?

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Sneak a peek by looking at photos of a class on our front page and find more information below!
Laughter Yoga (or Laughter Wellness) is a simple yet powerful form of exercise. It combines yoga-based deep breathing, gentle stretching, simulated laughter exercises and playful games and activities. Using no jokes or comedy, a class involves movement and breathing exercises designed to stimulate laughter and cultivate an inner spirit of joy. 
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Laughter Yoga was created by Dr. Madan Kataria, a family physician in India who, after researching the profound physiological and psychological benefits of laughter, wanted to find an alternative way of treating his patients; many of whom were suffering from illness related to stress. What started with five people in a Mumbai park in 1995 now has thousands of people practising all over the world.

Laughter Clubs are a worldwide network of social clubs run by volunteers. They are independent, non-profit, non-political, and non-religious community groups of diverse people where everyone is welcome (all ages and abilities).


Benefits of Laughter

In addition to feeling great during and after a good laugh, there are plenty of recent scientific studies that show that the old cliche “laughter is the best medicine” rings true. Laughter helps all systems of the body- the respiratory system, the circulatory and nervous systems, and the endocrine and immune systems.

Laughter can benefit us by: 
  • Boosting the immune system
  • Relieving emotional and mental stress
  • Relieving tension in muscles
  • Helping with managing pain
  • Providing aerobic exercise for the whole body and building core strength
  • Improving breathing
  • Stimulating digestion and internal organs
  • Oxygenating blood and brain making one feel alert and energetic
  • Improving productivity, creativity and improves communication
  • inspiring optimism and hope
  • and the list goes on!

Click here to view worldwide research on the benefits of laughter.


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Want to join us? We'd love to have you along!  Here are some tips to help you have a great experience:
  • Come as you are - happy, sad, stressed, relaxed... everyone can make the choice to laugh!
  • Wear comfy clothes & bring slippers and a water bottle.
  • We typically do not use yoga mats. If you wish to lie down for the meditation, please feel free to bring a mat or blanket.
  • Due to club member sensitivities, please do not wear perfume.
  • Although laughter is gentle exercise, if you are unsure whether it is for you, please check with your doctor.

calgarylaughteryoga@gmail.com
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