Everyone loves laughter, and one doctor in India has taken the concept to a new level. Dr Kataria originated the idea of laughter clubs while writing an article about laughter in 1995. His research led him to discover a large body of scientific literature describing the proven benefits of laughing on the mind and body.

According to Dr Kataria, laughter is a positive and powerful emotion that has all the ingredients required for indivi-duals to change themselves and change the world in a peaceful and positive way. It is a universal language, which has the potential to unite humanity.

Over a decade later, there are more than 5,000 clubs around the world that meet regularly. Dr Kataria’s School of Laughter Yoga organises teacher training courses, conferences and workshops.

In 1998 Dr Kataria created World Laughter Day’. This celebration, which promotes a positive manifestation for world peace, is intended to build up a global consciousness of friendship via laughter. Celebrated every first Sunday in May, this year it drew more than 100,000 people.

The unique concept of this idea is that anyone can laugh in a group for 15–20 minutes without depending on a great sense of humour, jokes or comedy. The practice combines very simple laughing exercises and gentle yoga breathing with group laughter.

The best time for a laughing session is between 6am and 7am. Dr Kataria says: ‘The advantage of laughter in the morn-ing is that it keeps you in good spirits throughout the day. It energises your body and charges you with happiness.’

Contact: www​.laughteryoga​.org
Laughter session with deaf children in India. Photo: © School Of Laughter Yoga