Introduction
Understanding Practice
Created by Madan Kataria, the yoga of laughter combines simulated laughter, gaze, movement and breaths inspired by yoga. It is a contemporary method distinct from classical yogas.
Benefits sought
- Temporary humor
- Collective link
- Wellbeing
- Dedramatization
History and evolution
The first club was established in Mumbai in 1995. The collective format is rapidly spreading around the world with standardized sessions.
Practice guidance
- Laughing Without a joke
- Game and visual contact
- Breathing between exercises
- Always voluntary participation
What does a session look like?
Warming, thematic laughter exercises, breathing, then returning to calm. The group and social contagion are central.
What we know — and what we don't know
Immediate effects on mood and social bonding are plausible; clinical data are limited.
Small studies suggest an improvement in mood or stress, but insufficient data are available for therapeutic promises. Laughing alone does not cure depression.
Precautions and limits
- Adapt in case of recent surgery, hernia, pregnancy at risk or respiratory problem.
- Never make a fool of or force a person.
- Provide a calm alternative for those who are uncomfortable with laughter.
Severe pain, aggravation, unusual symptom or psychological distress require appropriate professional advice. Orabel does not offer any diagnosis or prescription.
Status in France
The title of laughter yoga facilitator is not regulated and does not confer a health qualification.
Welcoming sadness and pain: laughter must not become an injunction to positivity.
Sources