Laughter has often been called the best medicine, and Laughter Yoga elevates this concept to a powerful practice. Created by Dr. Madan Kataria in 1995, Laughter Yoga combines intentional laughter with breathing techniques to form an exercise routine that boosts mental health. Dr. Kataria claims that Laughter Yoga can elevate mood, reduce stress, strengthen the immune system, increase energy, enhance life quality and help manage challenges. This joyful practice can improve physical health, uplifts mood and strengthens social connections.

Better Together is pleased to offer free Laughter Yoga sessions with local practitioner Janie Rouke every Tuesday at 1 pm. Janie, with her kinesiology knowledge and playful approach, makes it easy to laugh. Each session lasts about 30-40 minutes and includes laughter exercises, deep breathing techniques and guided relaxation. The word “yoga” here means “to unite”—reconnecting body, mind, and spirit—rather than the strenuous poses people often association with the word “yoga”.

Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and bring water, but there’s no lying on the floor or strenuous stretching involved. Instead, the focus is on gentle movements and laughter. Janie’s bubbly personality puts everyone at ease, makes laughter feel easy and natural.

Sessions start with light warm-ups like stretching, clapping and chanting to create a playful atmosphere. These lead into guided laughter exercises mixed with deep breathing. Though laughter might feel simulated and awkward at first, the group’s energy turns it into genuine, hearty laughter. Each session ends with relaxation, leaving participants balanced and refreshed.

Participants of Janie’s classes can experience numerous benefits, including stress reduction, as laughter releases endorphins, the body’s natural stress busters. It also boosts immunity by increasing the production of immune cells and antibodies. Regular laughter sessions can elevate mood, alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety and promote a positive outlook on life. Performing the class in a group can enhance social connections, helping laughter flow naturally. By incorporating gentle physical movements, the classes can provide low impact exercise suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Laughter Yoga harnesses this power to promote overall health and well-being. It’s an easy and enjoyable way to boost physical fitness, uplift your mood, and connect with others. These classes aim to promote health, happiness and harmony within our community by bringing more joy into life.  As one participant shared, “I didn’t realise how long I hadn’t laughed. When things are tough, it’s hard to laugh. This class reminded me to laugh again.”