I attended a Yoga Laughter session with Lynn Himmelmann in Withrow Park on May 4th, World Laughter Day.
I must confess, I was feeling a bit self-conscious, so much so that on my way to the park I even thought about turning back. But I decided to give it a try. Besides, I said to myself, I love laughing and have no difficulty laughing, so why not? The day turn out to be sunny and warm, and slowly the group started to form.
After introducing herself and telling us about her experience with Laughter Yoga for the last 10 plus years, Lynn guided us through a series of "exercises". I thought of them more as excuses to laugh and to share our laughter with everyone around us.
I absolutely loved it! It was amazing to feel my body and my mind relaxing, I completely enjoyed the process and the experience. At the end of the session I felt as If I had exercised vigorously.
When I came back home that day, I noticed the difference in my energy, in my body and my state of mind. I also noticed that that night I slept very well because when I got up in the morning I felt refreshed, relaxed and very positive.
I've been thinking about the fact that there are lots of reasons to laugh all the time, and the simple methods that Lynn and the other facilitators used are proof of that. Perhaps we need to focus more on all the things that are fun and positive in our lives to allow healing not only at the physical but also at the level of the mind, the emotions and the Inner Self.
So, Try it! Laugh by yourself or with friends and family. It does not cost anything and the effects are incredible!
There is a lot of information about the effects of Laughter on our bodies, there have been medical studies done in the States, in Europe and in India. You can find Dr. Kataria and other Laughter leaders doing Laughter Yoga in YouTube. Use their guidance to start laughing.
Remember that laughter is the best medicine.
To get in touch with Lynn Himmelmann call (416) 469-2033, or go to http://www.laughyourselfhappy.com/
Ayda Moreno, Certified Aromatherapist, Reiki Master, Reflexologist