Two people engaging in laughter yoga therapy

What is Laughter Yoga & How Can It Help You?

We all desire health, joy, and happiness in our lives. But instead we are more stressed, depressed, getting less sleep, experiencing more negative thoughts, and feeling isolated. Are you someone who wants to bring more joy and laughter into your life? If so, laughter yoga is the answer!

We’ve known for centuries that “laughter is the best medicine” and now the research has proven the benefits of laughter on our overall health and wellness. Laughter yoga is a tool which delivers the benefits of laughter on command without relying on humor, jokes, or comedy. Laughter yoga is a unique practice of pairing laughter yoga exercises with yoga breathing techniques. Laughter yoga is done in a group setting and is great for individuals of all ages with varying ability levels. 

Picture of Juliet Pellicane, Laughter Yoga Leader and therapist for anxiety, stress, and grief in Milwaukee, WI

How does Laughter Yoga work? 

Scientific studies have shown that the body cannot differentiate between intentional/voluntary and involuntary laughter. One receives the same physiological and psychological benefits whether the laughter is voluntary or involuntary. Laughter yoga is initiated without relying on humor or jokes, instead, we initiate laughter as a body exercise in a group with eye contact and childlike playfulness. The intentional laughter with playfulness quickly becomes real, contagious laughter. 

Mindful Counseling and Wellness LLC offers group laughter yoga sessions in the Milwaukee area. Laughter yoga is great for schools, assisted living facilities, hospitals, corporate events, and more! To learn more about offering Laughter Yoga at your place of employment, school, or health care facility, please fill out the form on the contact page!

Benefits of Laughter Yoga

  • Mental Health Benefits

    • Adds joy and zest to life

    • Eases anxiety and tension

    • Relieves stress

    • Improves mood

    • Strengthens resiliency

  • Social Benefits

    • Strengthens relationships

    • Enhances teamwork

    • Helps defuse conflict

    • Promotes group bonding

    • Attracts us to one another

  • Physical Health Benefits

    • Boosts immunity

    • Lowers stress hormones

    • Decreases pain

    • Relaxes your muscles

    • Prevents heart disease