Laughing yoga's not all jokes in Hume
Laura Banks
07Apr08
Tracy Oliver, Chengfan Mo, Liza Fernades, Jenny Brodie and Eleanor Morgan and Susan McGregor see the funny side
LAUGHTER is the best medicine.
That's according to Susan McGregor, a Glenroy Neighbourhood Learning Centre volunteer who is running "laughter yoga" sessions.
"Despite what you might think, it's not all about jokes, but it certainly does make you feel good," Ms McGregor said.
"It's all about fun-filled sessions, deep breathing, gentle stretching and special laughter yoga exercises."
Laughter yoga, tested at the learning centre a year ago through the Go For Your Life campaign, was such a hit it will become a regular fixture.
Ms McGregor said the class was not all about telling jokes, but once the laughing began it was often hard to stop.
She said the form of mild exercise was developed in India by Dr Madan Kataria, who could see there were benefits from laugher and harnessed them into his teachings.
"It improves your wellbeing, oxygenates the blood and is great for relaxation and reducing stress levels," the certified facilitator said.
"You don't need to bring anything, just yourself, and be prepared to laugh and for some silliness."
Laughter yoga is not physical, but rather focuses on gentle stretches and movements.
* Laughter yoga classes start today at the Glenroy Neighbourhood Learning Centre, 5b Cromwell St, Glenroy. Details: 9304 3910.
