First, laughing releases endorphins and "happy" hormones like dopamine and serotonin. These effects are linked to a better mood, reduced pain, lower blood pressure, a stronger immune system, and lower stress levels. What's more, laughing with other people can increase social connectedness and bonding. as well as strengthen relationships.
Inspired by Hasyayoga, a practice involving prolonged voluntary laughter, the Laughter Yoga Challenge is based on the belief that voluntary laughter, or laughing without any reason, provides the same physiological and psychological benefits as spontaneous laughter. In fact, research has proven that just 10–20 minutes of fake or real laughter have a profound benefit on the human body. The effective blend of laughter and breathing results in multiple health benefits, primarily increasing the supply of oxygen and boosting the immune system.
The session does not rely on jokes, humor, or comedy. It initiates laughter as a form of exercise in a group, and as the laughter sessions progress, the laughter becomes real and contagious.
