How does it work?
This Laughter in the New Forest group was started by Jan to help bring some much needed joy into the lives of people who seek it. Laugter Yoga is backed by scientific studies that prove the benefits, and how good it is for us.
Laughter Yoga works because the brain cannot differentiate between real and fake laughter if it is done willingly. When sharing your laughter with others it can quickly turn into real, contagious laughter.
What is Laughter Yoga?
Laughter Yoga was started in 1995 by Dr Madan Kataria in Mumbai, India. It is a unique concept where exercises that use eye contact and childlike playfulness, without using external sources such as jokes or comedy, cause us to laugh for no particular reason.
We can also use singing, dancing and playing to complete the 4 elements of Joy. Joy comes from within and can be triggered by simple activities to create our own inner happiness.
The benefits
To get the full benefits of laughter we need to sustain it for 10-15 minutes to bring about physiological and psychological changes:
Increased oxygen - Muscle relaxation - Improved blood circulation - Releases 'happy chemicals' to balance emotions - Strengthens the immune system - Lowers blood pressure - Burns calories - Releases Oxytocin and many more, making it a simple way to look after our physical and mental health.
IN PERSON SESSIONS 2026
Laughter in Lyndhurst
At Hartwood House Care Home, Bournemouth Road, Lyndhurst, SO43 7DP
Dates:
Saturday 6th June @ 10am – 11.30am
COST: £5
The Laughter Session will run for 50 minutes. You are then invited to stay for a social natter over a cuppa and cake until 11.30am.
For more information please contact Jan via the form below or give her a call.
