By Page H. Gifford
Correspondent
At the Feb. 21 monthly wellness program at Lake Monticello, participants were introduced to Laughing Yoga, a practice that blends intentional laughter with breathing exercises to promote physical and emotional well-being.
Those attending were already interested in yoga or overall wellness, or were simply curious about something new.
Laughing Yoga is a therapeutic approach developed by Dr. Madan Kataria. It combines simulated laughter exercises with deep diaphragmatic breathing. No jokes are required. Instead, the practice relies on childlike playfulness and group interaction to stimulate the release of endorphins and reduce stress.
“It’s discovering a joyful, simple, and uplifting way to move your body, calm your mind, and boost your well-being,” said Cynthia Moore, who hosts the monthly wellness programs. “You don’t need comedy or a great sense of humor — just a willingness to laugh.”
Marge Thompson, who led the session, described laughter as “powerful medicine.” She noted that laughter can reduce stress and tension for up to 24 hours, improve circulation and oxygen intake, gently engage the heart and lungs, and provide low-impact physical activity without special equipment or clothing.
The practice operates on the principle that the body does not distinguish between real and simulated laughter; both can trigger similar physiological responses. Like traditional yoga, Laughing Yoga aims to increase oxygen levels, support immune function, lower blood pressure, and ease anxiety.
The 30- to 40-minute session began with breathing exercises, followed by warm-ups, playful games, and guided laughter activities. Among them were “laughter milkshake,” in which participants pretend to mix and drink a beverage while laughing, and “electric handshake,” where partners simulate a mild shock while shaking hands and laughing. The exercises encouraged eye contact and interaction, making the laughter increasingly contagious.
For some, the experience can feel awkward at first. The exaggerated movements, facial expressions, and vocalizations require participants to let go of self-consciousness. Those comfortable with improvisation or theater may find it easier, but Thompson emphasized that the goal is not performance…it is participation.As adults, we often lose the ease of being playful. Laughing Yoga offers a structured way to rediscover that sense of lightness. By the end of the session, participants said they felt energized — as though they had taken a brisk walk — and more at ease with one another.
