Laughing Meditation: The Spiritual Practice that will Tickle Your Soul!
Imagine a world where laughter is not just a response to humor but a profound spiritual practice that connects us to the Divine, uplifts our spirits, and heals our souls. Join us on a deep dive into the purpose, benefits, and history of this enchanting practice, and learn how to incorporate it into your life both individually and in groups.
The History and Purpose of the Laughing Meditation
While the roots of the Laughing Meditation can be traced back to ancient spiritual traditions where laughter was seen as a sacred act, it became an official meditation practice in 1995, when Dr. Madan Kataria, a physician from Mumbai started the first laughter club with just 5 people in a park. Through time, he decided to make laughter as a form of yogic exercise by combining laughter exercises with yogic breathing techniques, creating a powerful practice that has since spread across the globe. Today, Laughing Meditation is practiced in laughter clubs, yoga studios, and spiritual retreats worldwide.
At its core, Laughing Meditation is about embracing the present moment with joy and openness. It’s a practice that encourages us to let go of our inhibitions, release stress, and connect with our inner child. By engaging in laughter, we transcend the mundane and tap into a higher state of consciousness where joy and peace reside. It’s like giving your soul a bubble bath, washing away the grime of daily worries and leaving you refreshed and rejuvenated.
The Benefits of the Laughing Meditation
The benefits of Laughing Meditation are as vast as the cosmos. Scientifically, laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals, which promote an overall sense of well-being. It reduces stress, boosts the immune system, and even improves cardiovascular health. Spiritually, laughter opens the heart, fosters a sense of community, and enhances our connection to the universe. It’s like planting seeds of joy in the garden of your soul, which blossom into a vibrant, fulfilling life.
How to Practice the Laughing Meditation
- 1Find a Comfortable Space. Choose a quiet, comfortable spot where you won’t be disturbed. Sit or lie down in a relaxed position.
- 2Set an Intention. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Set an intention to embrace joy and release any tension.
- 3Start with a Smile. Begin by smiling gently. Allow the smile to grow into a chuckle, then a giggle, and finally, a full belly laugh. Don’t worry if it feels forced at first; your body will soon catch on.
- 4Let Go. Allow the laughter to flow naturally. Imagine it bubbling up from your heart like a fountain of joy, washing over you and filling the room with positive energy.
- 5Reflect. After a few minutes, let the laughter subside. Sit in silence and notice the sensations in your body. Feel the lightness and peace within.
A few notes/tips:
- If you have difficulty in the beginning, it may help to think of humorous situations, to recall your favorite jokes, to make funny faces, and even to think how silly it is to do a laughing inner awareness exercise.
- As you end your Laughing Meditation, become aware and mindful of your mind, body and emotions. Notice any thoughts that surface and any feelings that occur. Become attentive to any intuitive messages you may receive.
- End your experience with a smile.
How to Practice the Laughing Meditation with a Group
For a really inspirational experience, try a Laughing Meditation with a group! The process is very similar:
- 1Sit together in a Comfortable Space. Choose a quiet, comfortable spot where you won’t be disturbed. Encourage everyone to find a comfortable position, and when everyone is ready, begin with a deep breath..
- 2Set a Group Intention. As a group, set an intention to embrace joy and release any tension.
- 3Start with a Smile. Keep eyes open to build connection and trust! Begin with everyone smiling gently. Allow the smile to grow into a chuckle, then a giggle, and finally, a full belly laugh. This can happen organically, or someone can be designated as the "laughter starter." Don’t worry if it feels forced at first; it will catch on and grow.
- 4Let Go. Allow the laughter to flow naturally. Imagine it bubbling up from your heart like a fountain of joy, washing over you and filling the room with positive energy. Keep it going for as long as you feel comfortable, and listen intuitively to know when it is coming to a close.
- 5Reflect. After a few minutes, let the laughter subside. Take a few minutes to sit in silence and notice the sensations in your body. Notice how you are feeling throughout your body, mind, and soul. Then, as a group, share any reflections, feelings, and a-ha's that arose as a result of this shared experience.
The Laughing Meditation is a beautiful reminder that joy is our natural state. It’s a practice that invites us to dance with life, to embrace the absurdity of existence, and to find divinity in the sound of our own laughter. We invite you to not take life too seriously. As Jean Houston said, "At the height of laughter, the universe is flung into a kaleidoscope of new possibilities.” May your journey with Laughing Meditation be filled with light, love, and laughter.