Laughter Yoga
Laughter Yoga: The Joyful Breath
Laughter Yoga (Hasyayoga) is a unique practice that combines simulated, unconditional laughter with yogic breathing exercises (pranayama). It is based on the principle that the body benefits from laughter even when it's simulated.
What to Expect in a Class
- No Jokes Needed: The laughter is initiated as a physical exercise.
- Childlike Playfulness: The session involves a series of playful "laughter exercises."
- Eye Contact and Contagion: Participants make eye contact, and the simulated laughter quickly turns into real, contagious laughter.
- Yogic Breathing: The laughter exercises are interspersed with deep, cleansing breaths.
- Laughter Meditation: The session often culminates in a Laughter Meditation, where laughter flows freely.
Key Poses
- This practice does not involve traditional yoga asanas. The "poses" are simple movements combined with laughter, such as extending the arms wide while doing "Hearty Laughter."