FOR centuries we have known that laughter is the best medicine but there has never been a reliable delivery method until now.
Gaye Hart recognised the value of fun and laughter when caring for her terminally ill father. She found even the smallest of daily amusements could keep up spirits amid the sadness.
The experience led her to research laughter groups and she contacted Laughter Clubs Victoria to find out more about establishing a group on the Mornington Peninsula.
Laughter yoga is an exercise routine that combines unconditional laughter with yogic breathing. First pioneered by Dr Madan Kataria in India, the practice dates back about 20 years when the first laughter yoga club was established in Mumbai, India.
Ms Hart said the revolutionary idea had changed the lives of hundreds of thousands of people around the world, helping them attain a state of improved wellness.
“Laughter develops physiological benefits that can decrease feelings of stress and negative emotions,” she said.
Now a trained “laughter leader”, Ms Hart held the first meeting of the Peninsula Laughter Club late last month at Coolart Homestead in Somers.
“My aim was to organise a laughter club on the peninsula as a free community event for all people to be able to access,” she said.
“Working in the outdoors further promotes health and emotional wellbeing.”
Peninsula Laughter Club meets at Coolart Homestead on the last Sunday of each month at 9.30am. Sessions go for 30 minutes and are free.
Details: Ms Hart, 0409 174 128.
