Laughter is the best medicine, and that is the idea behind laughter yoga. Laughter yoga is a unique exercise that involves implementing laughter as a form of yoga, with the aim of promoting overall health and wellness.
Eva Delidakis is a certified laughter yoga instructor who has been practicing laughter yoga for years. In this article, we will explore the various benefits of laughter yoga with Eva Delidakis.
What is Laughter Yoga?
Laughter yoga, also known as Hasyayoga, is a modern exercise routine that was developed by Dr. Madan Kataria in 1995. It involves a combination of yoga deep breathing exercises and simulated laughter techniques.
The practice involves group sessions where people participate in playful exercises designed to promote laughter.
Laughter is contagious and can have physical and emotional benefits. Though initially simulated, laughter becomes real as participants feed off the energy of the group.
The exercises are designed to inspire genuine laughter, providing an opportunity to laugh for no reason. Eva Delidakis notes that laughter yoga is a fun and simple way to promote a positive mindset and reduce stress.
Physical Benefits
Laughter has been said to be the best medicine, and this is due to the many physical health benefits it provides. Laughter yoga works on a physical level, with each session promoting various benefits, including:.
1. Strengthening the Immune System
Laughter yoga increases the number of immune cells and antibodies in the body, leading to a stronger immune system. It also reduces the risk of infections and other diseases.
2. Reducing Pain
Laughter releases endorphins that act as natural painkillers in the body. Laughter yoga can, therefore, alleviate pain naturally.
3. Lowering Blood Pressure
Laughter yoga is a great way to reduce hypertension. The deep breathing exercises promote relaxation, reducing both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in people with hypertension.
4. Promoting Weight Loss
Laughter yoga can also aid weight loss. The abdominal muscles are worked during laughter, which helps to reduce belly fat. This type of yoga can, therefore, be an effective addition to a weight loss program.
Mental Health Benefits
Laughter yoga is also beneficial to mental health. Participating in laughter yoga sessions with Eva Delidakis can promote:.
1. Reducing Stress and Anxiety
Laughter releases endorphins that promote relaxation and a sense of well-being. It also reduces the levels of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline in the body. As a result, laughter yoga can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms.
2. Improving Mood
Laughter yoga increases the levels of positive emotions such as joy, happiness, and contentment. It also improves social connections, leading to better relationships and an enhanced sense of community.
3. Boosting Confidence
Laughter yoga sessions encourage participants to let go of inhibitions and practice laughter. This promotes self-confidence and can help to overcome self-consciousness, anxiety, and shyness.
Who can Practice Laughter Yoga?
Laughter yoga is a low-impact exercise suitable for all ages and abilities. Anyone can practice it, including people with mobility issues, children, the elderly, and pregnant women.
No previous yoga experience is required, and the sessions are non-competitive and inclusive.
Conclusion
Eva Delidakis is a certified laughter yoga instructor committed to promoting overall health and wellness through laughter yoga.
The physical and mental health benefits of laughter yoga are numerous and include strengthening the immune system, reducing pain, lowering blood pressure, promoting weight loss, reducing stress and anxiety, improving mood, and boosting confidence. Anyone can practice laughter yoga, regardless of age, ability, or previous yoga experience.