What is Laughter Yoga?

Picture
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. 
​
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.


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