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Alternate
Systems Of Healing
LAUGHTER
THERAPY:
Laughter
is said to be addictive. Given its several health benefits, that
is desirable. Firstly it gives a sense of well being because of
release of endorphins and neuropeptides. By ensuring the inhalation
of more oxygen, the lifeline of the system, it makes people feel
better. It decreases stress leading to lowered stiffness of muscles
- muscle relaxation easing headaches, body aches and other muscular
problems.
As
blood vessels get dilated, blood pressure falls by 10-20 mm mercury
after 10 minutes of laughter - very useful for patients of hypertension.
With levels of antibodies and natural killer cells going up with
laughter, it also improves the immunity - evident from thousands
of laughter club members have decreased incidences of cough and
cold.
Laughter
has innumerable other benefits. It proves a potent anti-stress factor,
decreases asthmatic attacks, increases stamina, relives arthritic
pain, ensures good sleep and elevates mood. Since the serotonin
levels go up after laughter, it is an effective antidote for depression
too.
Haasya
Yoga is a method of group laughter that is based on yogic techniques.
The exercises are designed based entirely on yoga stretching, breathing
and variety of stimulated laughs, starting with deep breathing.
As simulation helps stimulation, exercise induced laughter - that
compliments but is not a substitute for natural laughter - increases
the capacity for the latter.
Helping
individuals increase their capacity to laugh more, be more self-confident
and self-expressive. Positive qualities are cultivated, thereby
removing negative emotions as jealousy, fear, guilt and anger. The
laughter club is in effect a behavioral training institute that
spontaneously raises spirits at no cost. The concept of a laughter
bank, where people come up with creative ideas for different types
of laughter, for instance is to bring in play fullness into the
atmosphere. The fun, frolic and childish attitude generated not
only reduces inhibitions, but also curtails tensions.
Under
certain conditions though laughter therapy is not recommended. Patients
with hernia, advanced piles, eye complications, Angolan pain and
those who have just undergone major surgery should not venture into
this therapy without the explicit advice of a doctor. Pregnant woman
should also preferably avoid laughter sessions till some conclusive
data regarding the safety is available. Patients suffering from
tuberculosis, chronic bronchitis and other respiratory infections
where phlegm is produced must take precaution against spread of
infection. Finally, even a normal person experiencing discomfort
while laughing, must discontinue immediately and seek expert medical
help.
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Systems Of Healing

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