LAUGHTER embodies the essence of life. Scientifically, it yields numerous positive effects on individuals. But emotionally it serves as a healing balm, providing a vital boost to stimulate happiness in life. To keep this essence alive, people, predominantly elderly, gather in groups in the morning for Laughter Yoga sessions, often referred to as laughter clubs. The participants practice different styles of laughter methods to reap in its many health and mental well-being benefits. In honour of this happiness and joy, World Laughter Day is celebrated on every first Sunday of May. On this Laughter Day, ‘The Hitavada’ spoke to Krishnakumar Dabholkar, Janmanch and Telecom Laughter Club member to get his insight on the various benefits of laughter.

 

Dabholkar, a 79-year-old young man, dedicatedly spends one hour daily in laughter yoga. He, along with his other Laughter Club members, gather in the garden and practice various techniques of laughter ranging from ‘Tu-Tu Main-Main laughter’, coffee laughter to mobile laughter’ and more. “After retirement, I heard about Laughter Club. I had always been a curious person and this curiosity led me to visit the club. And soon, I was an active member. My association with the Laughter Club is now over eight years old and it has brought only joy and energy in my life. Even at 79, I feel zealous. My enthusiasm is at par with any youngster.” Dabholkar elaborated on the activities to be conducted to mark World Laughter Day. “Apart from practising various types of laughter exercises, yoga and activities like dance and songs will also be organised on the occasion.

 

Laughter clubs across the country and abroad will organise events to celebrate this day of laughter.” “People often say that at laughter club, we do not laugh genuinely. It’s all artificial. However, I would like to add, though it starts with artificial laughter, it gradually transitions into genuine and hearty laughter. The benefits are immense.” Explaining its benefits, the septuagenarian proceeded, “Laughter yields countless positive benefits. Laughter releases endorphin, which helps in reducing stress hormones. It stimulates both sides of the brain, which improves creativity and problem-solving ability of an individual. Sharing laughter endorses social bonds and helps foster camaraderie.

 

And most importantly, it improves cardiovascular health by increasing blood flow and oxygenation, leading to better heart function.” The man with a youthful heart advised youngsters to join the club to deal with everyday stress they endure in personal and professional lives. “Youth today are very stressed and dejected. Laughter therapy can actually help their heart cope with the stress and anxiety.” Recalling an incident, Dabholkar shared, “I travelled to Pune to attend a Laughter Club event where a senior person shared an anecdote. He recounted how doctors advised him a heart surgery, but he was against it. Instead, he practised laughter yoga. When he revisited the doctor, the cardiologist was surprised with the improvement in his heart health. The doctor declared that no surgery was needed anymore. The person also presented all the medical test results before and after undergoing laughter therapy.” “So, it is really true, laughter is the best medicine for heart. So, for the sake of your heart, keep laughing.” he concluded. n