Archana's Laughter Yoga combines yogic breathing (Pranayama) with Laughter Exercises, offering a unique concept of unconditional Laughter. This approach does not depend on humor or comedy but initiates laughter as an exercise. The body cannot differentiate between fake and real laughter, providing the same physiological and psychological benefits. Laughter Yoga increases oxygen supply and boosts the immune system. It teaches individuals to laugh in all circumstances, aiding in better handling of challenging situations.
The practice of Laughter Yoga is relevant in everyday life as it equips individuals to maintain a positive mindset in tough situations. Regular practice can help in stress reduction, enhancing the immune system, and improving overall wellbeing. It addresses physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects, leading to a balanced and joyful life. Laughter Yoga's ability to enhance mood, increase energy levels, and boost creativity is particularly beneficial in today’s fast-paced world.
The routine practice of Laughter Yoga involves four steps: Clapping and Warming-Up Exercises, Deep Breathing Exercises, Childlike Playfulness, and Laughter Exercises, culminating in a meditation session. This process helps participants connect deeply with their mental and emotional selves, leading to a transformative experience. Regular practice requires attention to self and participation in these exercises, which are tailored to individual needs, considering factors like age, gender, and health conditions.
Archana Rao, India's foremost female Laughter Yoga Specialist, is a distinguished figure in the realm of ancient Indian wellness practices. Trained by Dr. Madan Kataria, she has innovatively merged traditional laughter exercises with modern therapeutic techniques, establishing a unique model of Laughter Yoga. Archana's sessions focus on holistic therapy through laughter, deeply rooted in the ancient yogic philosophy of 'Hasiba Kheliba Dariba Dhyan', emphasizing joy and playfulness in meditation. Her expertise shines in customizing sessions to various group dynamics, skillfully invoking laughter without relying on humor, thereby creating an environment of joy and peace. Beyond the corporate sphere, Archana's passion extends to social causes, voluntarily offering her services to diverse groups including children, the LGBT community, cancer patients, and the elderly.
Taittiriya Upanishad (circa 6th century BCE)
Context: One of the principal Upanishads, which delves deeply into the nature of reality and human consciousness.
Mention of Joy: It discusses 'Ananda' (bliss) as an essential quality of the self, suggesting that realizing inner joy is key to spiritual development and wellbeing. This aligns with the concept that joy (through laughter) that can enhance one's state of wellbeing.
Bhagavad Gita (circa 2nd century BCE - 2nd century CE)
Context: A 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Indian epic Mahabharata.
Mention of Joy and Balance: The text advocates for a balanced life and maintaining a joyful demeanor in the face of life’s challenges, which supports the ethos of Laughter Yoga—that maintaining joy can help manage stress and improve overall wellbeing.
Research paper: Psychological and physiological effects of laughter yoga sessions in Japan: A pilot study
Main Author: A. Tanaka
Date of Publishing: August 29, 2018
Abstract: This pilot study explores the psychological and physiological effects of laughter yoga over multiple sessions. It reports significant improvements in tension-anxiety and vigor, alongside notable decreases in stress-related hormonal levels after laughter yoga sessions, indicating potential health benefits.
30-45 mins LIVE 1:1 online introductory session with Archana Rao.
The session will be facilitated by the Leela Life Concierge Desk.
Start with a brief explanation of Laughter Yoga and its benefits
Practice Laughter Yoga exercises and discuss it's impact
Enjoy a guided meditation including affirmations of self-love and gratitude
Engage in an interactive Q&A session ask questions, gain deeper insights, and clarify doubts about the course
Please maintain a minimum 1.5-hour gap between your meal and the session
Wear comfortable clothing
Avoid wearing wristwatches, bracelets, etc during the session
The specialist will be tailoring the course for you and the exact number of sessions will depend on multiple factors such as need, inclination, interest, absorption and more.
The plan below should give you a rough indication of how many sessions will it take for you to inculcate the learnings from this course in to your regular life by yourself.
Laughter Yoga Specialist
You have a session scheduled with Archana Rao
Archana Rao will soon be taking sessions on Leela Life
Next step, we will send you the zoom link one day before the event.
We have reserved your time slot with Archana Rao.
Thank you for your payment. Kindly complete the wellbeing assessment to help personalize your session with the specialist. Please provide detailed responses as they are crucial for a tailored experience. Insufficient information may result in session decline. Your responses are confidential and shared only with your chosen specialist. Estimated time to complete: 5-10 minutes.