Laughter yoga is a unique exercise routine that combines traditional yoga breathing techniques with laughter. The idea is based on the fact that the brain cannot distinguish between genuine spontaneous laughter and forced laughter, so even forced laughter can provide emotional and physiological benefits.

According to a study published in "Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being," laughter yoga has been shown to actually promote well-being and reduce stress, which can help improve mental health.

 

Researchers at Istanbul University in Turkey divided 83 senior nursing students into two groups: those who participated in a laughter yoga session (41 participants) and those who did not (42 participants). The laughter yoga sessions, conducted over five weeks for 40 minutes each, included clapping, deep breathing exercises, and enjoyable activities designed to induce laughter.

 

The research team explained that "nursing students often face high levels of stress due to rigorous academic programs and intense clinical training requirements," and that "these increases in stress can negatively impact mental well-being, leading to issues such as burnout, anxiety, and depression."

 

The research results showed that the group participating in the laughter yoga session experienced a significant improvement in well-being scores, and many students in the group reported feeling happier and less stressed after the session. The stress levels in this group also decreased, but there was no difference in perceived stress levels compared to the control group.

 

Professor Merve Altınar Yass, the lead author of the study, stated, "The research results highlight the potential of laughter yoga to support mental health," and added, "Regular laughter yoga programs can be planned to promote mental health and well-being."

 

 

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I think this is the first time I've heard of laughter yoga.

Even if it's a forced laugh, if you smile

Is this helpful?

 

If stress is completely blown away

I'm curious about laughter yoga too.