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Laughter
Therapy
Laughter is
said to be addictive. Given its several health benefits, that is
desirable. Firstly it gives a sense of well being because of release of
endorphins and neuropeptides. By ensuring the inhalation of more oxygen,
the lifeline of the system, it makes people feel better. It also
decreases stress, leading to a reduced stiffness of muscles - muscle
relaxation easing headaches, body aches and other muscular problems.
As blood vessels get dilated, blood pressure falls by 10-20 mm mercury
after 10 minutes of laughter - very useful for patients suffering from
hypertension. With levels of antibodies and natural killer cells going
up with laughter, it also improves the immunity - evident from thousands
of laughter club members who have decreased incidences of cough and
cold.
Laughter also has innumerable other benefits. It proves a potent
anti-stress factor, decreases asthmatic attacks, increases stamina,
relives arthritic pain, ensures good sleep and elevates mood. Since the
serotonin levels go up after laughter, it is an effective antidote for
depression too. Haasya Yoga is a method of group laughter that is based
on yogic techniques.
The exercises are designed based
entirely on yoga stretching, breathing and variety of stimulated laughs,
starting with deep breathing. As simulation helps stimulation, exercise-
induced laughter - that compliments but is not a substitute for natural
laughter - increases the capacity for the latter.
Helping individuals increase their capacity to laugh more, be more
self-confident and self-expressive can have a positive effect on their
health. Moreover, desirable qualities are cultivated, thereby removing
negative emotions as jealousy, fear, guilt and anger. The laughter club
is in effect a behavioral training institute that spontaneously raises
spirits at no cost. The concept of a laughter bank, where people come up
with creative ideas for different types of laughter, for instance is to
bring in play fullness into the atmosphere. The fun, frolic and childish
attitude generated not only reduces all kinds of inhibitions, but also
curtails tensions.
Under certain conditions however, laughter therapy is not recommended.
Patients with hernia, advanced piles, eye complications, Angolan pain
and those who have just undergone major surgery should not venture into
this therapy without the explicit advice of a doctor. Pregnant woman
should also preferably avoid laughter sessions till some conclusive data
regarding the safety is available. Patients suffering from tuberculosis,
chronic bronchitis and other respiratory infections where phlegm is
produced must take precaution against the spread of infection. Finally,
even a normal person experiencing discomfort while laughing, must
discontinue immediately and seek expert medical help.
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