Laughing Yourself to Happiness
by Emma Bisland
On a cold Sunday morning, I stood nervously waiting for the class begin. I introduced myself to a small group of people and we all walked onto the grass.
"Do you know what you're in for?" asked a man to my right, as we all began clapping our hands and chanting in unison, "Ho Ho Ha Ha Ha."
I had first heard about Laughter Yoga only the week before, but was surprised to learn how popular and not to mention good for you it was said to be. They say that, through Laughter Yoga, the body releases natural endorphins that makes you feel good for hours afterwards. I was fascinated.
The laughter Yoga method proves that you don't need a sense of humour to laugh, you don't need to be happy to laugh and you definitely don't need a reason to laugh. All you need to bring along is an open mind.
This particular Yoga is practiced in a group as it relies on eye contact with the other members to stimulate contagious laugher. While the initial first few giggles may be forced, they soon turn into genuine, side-splitting, roars of laughter!
The former CEO of Laughter International, Merv Neal, explained to me that there are "three main benefits of laughter." The first is that it boosts your emotional state. "You can't be depressed if you're laughing!" Merv chuckled.
The second is that it boosts your immune system. When Merv was battling a serious illness a few years ago, he was faced with the shocking news that he had a week to live.
"The doctors had given up hope, they had never seen anyone with my symptoms before," he said.
With the dreadful news, Merv did something almost unthinkable given the circumstance.
"I thought it was funny, so I started laughing and the more I laughed the better I felt! I literally laughed myself to happiness."
Merv is now a strong believer in alternative medicines. Five and a half years later, he now conducts Professional ‘corporate stress management' presentations that teaches businesses the benefits of Laughter Yoga. The third main benefit is obviously the social aspect of the clubs. "People can come together and laugh." he said. "It's a great way to develop friendships."
With more than 5000 Laughter Yoga classes in around 90 countries, there has never been a better time to join a group and start laughing!
By the end of my class, my ribs and cheeks were aching from laughing so hard. I couldn't believe the buzzing high I felt, and it really did last for the rest of the day as promised. I am now an official laughter club member for life and I urge anyone in search of a different experience on a Sunday morning to give it a go.
For further information about the local Ferntree Gully Laughter Club contact Lynne Mitchell on:
lynnemitch@optusnet.com.au
Ph: 9763 5475 Mob: 0425 799 258