Laughter for Seniors

“You don’t stop laughing because you grow old. You grow old because you stop laughing.” — Michael Pritchard

Laughter Yoga is Ideal for Seniors

Laughter yoga is not just about laughing; it combines laughter exercises with deep breathing techniques, making it an excellent form of low-impact exercise. These exercises can help seniors improve their cardiovascular health, increase lung capacity, and even reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

 

Unlike many forms of exercise, laughter yoga can be adapted to fit a wide variety of physical abilities and can even be done in a chair.

See it in Action!

This video is courtesy ABC news channel 7 which shows a Laughter Yoga session at a senior center New York.

Social Connection

Seniors often face the challenge of isolation, but laughter yoga brings residents, family members, and loved ones together in a fun and engaging way. Sharing laughter and joyful moments during these sessions can foster community and strengthen relationships.


Laughter Yoga is a natural antidote to loneliness, a common issue faced by many seniors. 

Physical Health

Immune System Strengthening: Laughter Yoga facilitates healing by strengthening the immune system, which becomes crucial as we age.

 

Increased Lung Capacity & Muscle Strength: For seniors who may find it challenging to engage in physical exercises, Laughter Yoga provides a powerful cardiovascular workout, strengthening muscles and increasing lung capacity.

 

Sleep and Digestion: This joyful exercise can improve digestion and sleep, two areas that can often pose challenges as we age.

“I have not seen anybody dying of laughter; I know millions who are dying because they are not laughing” – Dr. Madan Kataria

Diabetes: As we get older, preventing and managing diabetes becomes a concern. Laughter Yoga, by reducing stress, enhancing circulation, and providing exercise, can improve insulin sensitivity and contribute to blood sugar control.

 

Cognitive Stimulation: Participating in a laughter yoga session requires attention and engagement, which can stimulate cognitive functions.  This may help with cognitive decline, dementia and alzheimers.

 

Lowers Blood Pressure: Among older adults, high blood pressure is a prevalent health concern. Laughter yoga promotes oxygen circulation, aiding in the management of hypertension.

Mental Wellness

Depression and Loneliness: Many seniors suffer from depression, loneliness, and frustration. As they lose loved ones and face health challenges, maintaining a positive mental attitude becomes difficult. Laughter Yoga changes a person's biochemistry in a way that supports good mental health.

 

Stress Reduction

As we age, stress can significantly impact our physical and mental health. Laughter yoga serves as a potent stress-buster, providing relaxation and relief. Moreover, it may help slow down cognitive decline associated with chronic stress.

 

Improved Mood and Positivity. For seniors, maintaining a positive attitude can be crucial for overall well-being, and laughter yoga provides a simple yet effective way to achieve this.

Book or Attend a Laughter Session

Invite Toni to your upcoming senior event or include her in your senior living community’s activity schedule.

 

Toni generously offers a complimentary session each month. If you’re interested in a ‘sampler’ for your senior center, organization, or retirement community, feel free to contact her.

 

If you’d like to try it out before contacting for your group, there are individual options available on the Offerings page.  Use the Join a Session link below.