Everyday life is made up of many small and large difficulties that can be faced in various ways: there are those who surround themselves with affection, those who ask for the help of psychotherapy, and then there are also those who prefer to implement a different, original approach, drawing positive inspiration from some holistic activities. An example from this last point of view is represented by laughter yogaa trend that is also spreading in our country after having become popular in the four corners of the globe.
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The practice
No, it is not an amused reaction to a joke or a joke, but rather a specific one exercise program specially developed by the Indian doctor. Madan Katariafounder of the movement, which combines laughter and yoga breathing techniques. The idea behind this practice is that anyone, regardless of mood or situation, can laugh to improve their health and mood. We are not talking about an absolute novelty in itself: laughter therapy has been known for many years now, but Kataria deserves credit for having also applied it to the fascinating world of yoga.
Laughter is a natural activity, while in the practice of this type of yoga participants are encouraged to laugh voluntarily and intentionally. This happens through collective exercises that stimulate laughter, combined with techniques yoga breathingknown as Pranayama. They are all tools that increase the flow of oxygen to the body and brain, thus providing energy and a sense of well-being.
The benefits
According to Kataria, as Healthline magazine points out, laughter yoga “can help lift the moodreduce stress, strengthen the immune system, increase energy levels, improve quality of life and generally help you manage difficulties better.”
Often, in fact, it is not so obvious to be able to count on external influences to laugh: a laugh on command could therefore in this sense promote optimism and positivity more easily
It also seems, as highlighted by the expert, that laughter yoga helps those who practice it manage stress better through controlled breathing: this good habit guarantees a greater intake of oxygen, which activates the parasympathetic nervous system, the body’s natural relaxation system.
Furthermore, the sense of well-being perceived thanks to this practice would also be able to have positive consequences on the immune defenses, responsible for protecting the body from disturbing elements such as viruses, bacteria and pathologies of various nature.
Useful tips
Although it can certainly be practiced alone, it is advisable to carry out this activity in groupas in a club or a workshop, with the support of a trained instructor capable of accompanying participants through various exercises to promote fun and laughter.
Most sessions begin with simple breathing techniques, clapping and chanting to help people relax. Even the verses, from this perspective, can prove very useful for creating that relaxed and carefree atmosphere useful for achieving the final result.
In such a context it is of fundamental importance to let go, without fear of other people’s prejudice. Although it may seem silly at first, the goal of this exercise is precisely to remove any internal preconceptions you might have and let your innermost “self” free.
