What is laughter yoga exactly?
‘Laughter yoga is a combination of unconditioned laughter and yogic breathing exercises. The method has been developed by Dr. Manan Kataria, an Indian physician. It’s very relaxing and it comes with a number of health benefits like greater pain resistance, an increase in wellbeing, the easing of depression in elderly people, and the reduction of stress-related hormones,’
Is there any scientific evidence for the health benefits you mentioned?
‘Yes. Although laughter yoga is still a relatively young discipline, there already have been several scientific studies that prove that its effects are real. To give you an example, during one of those studies two test groups had to put their hands in freezing water. The people who participated in a laughter yoga session beforehand were able to sustain the cold water for a longer of time than the people who did not participate in the class.’
How did you get involved in laughter yoga?
‘About two years ago I participated in an open laughter yoga class. That initial experience was so great that I decided to get my laughter yoga group leader diploma, so I could teach other people. I also joined the Laughter Yoga Club Enschede, which is led by Iris Deutekom, with whom I will give the workshops in February.’
Isn’t it strange, laughing on command?
‘It can be a bit awkward at first, but if you force yourself to laugh, eventually it’ll come naturally. Fake it ‘till you make it, basically. Once the laughter comes from within you, you’ll almost immediately start feeling better. You are tricking your brain into releasing endorphins and it makes you feel aware of your body. Laughter yoga is about relaxing. Many people are very serious in their daily lives. Through laughter yoga they can let go of their worries and be themselves.’
The free laughter yoga workshops will take place on February 6th, 13th and 27th during lunch hours (12.30 – 13.30) at the Ballet Studio in the Vrijhof. Signing up is not necessary.
