Why I decided to try laughter yoga 

It took me a little while to book onto the Laughter Leader course, but looking back, I can see that the seed had already been planted. My attention was first drawn to videos I had seen on Facebook, and although I had mixed thoughts at the time, something about it made me smile. I remember thinking, “This looks like a laugh” – excuse the pun!

I also spoke at length with friends, who encouraged me and said they could really see me doing this. After much thought, and a helpful conversation with Lotte Mikkelsen, I finally decided to take that step.

Then Covid arrived, which meant the first course took place online. This definitely stretched my comfort zone. Being on a computer with others meant there was no hiding place, only a willingness to take part, be open, and gently challenge myself. To my surprise, I found that laughter really helped. Week by week, I felt my confidence grow, and before long I had booked onto the Laughter Teacher programme.

How laughter helped calm my nervous system and reduce stress

I became completely sold on laughter yoga when I attended the in-person course in London with Lotte. We began the day with ten minutes of laughter, followed by morning meditation and breathwork. It cleared my head, helped me relax, and allowed me to start the day with a lighter, more positive mindset.

Of course, negative thoughts still appeared from time to time, but they seemed to pass more easily. I began to notice a real shift in myself, especially in my confidence and presentation skills.

At that point in my life, laughter became more than just something fun. It motivated me, supported me, and became part of my own learning journey around health and wellbeing. It helped me reconnect with joy, with others, and with myself in a way I hadn’t expected.

The week-long course was intense, full of laughter meditation, breathwork, dancing, games, connection and so much more, from early morning until late in the day. I was surrounded by the sound and vibration of pure laughter, and by the end of the week I felt as though I was on top of the world.

It truly felt like a natural high. I felt light, happy, energised and ready for anything. It was the best I had felt in years. That experience showed me first-hand how laughter yoga could support wellbeing, help reduce stress, and leave me feeling calmer, more connected and full of energy.

Why I now help others experience the wellbeing benefits of laughter

Today, I feel deeply motivated to share my love of laughter and the joy it brings, along with its many wellbeing benefits. People have told me that my passion shines through, and I believe that is because laughter has touched my life in such a genuine way.

It breaks down barriers, supports communication, builds confidence, and helps people connect with greater ease.

For me personally, laughter makes me feel younger, brighter and more energised in both mind and body. It is a powerful tool we all carry with us, available at any moment. I cannot wait to keep sharing it with others and helping people experience the lightness, connection and joy that laughter can bring.

If you’re looking for new things to try to support your wellbeing, or you’re searching for a natural way to reduce stress and calm your nervous system, laughter yoga could be exactly what you need. At The Laughter Sanctuary, we welcome people from across Fareham, Gosport and the surrounding Hampshire area to experience the benefits of laughter in a friendly, supportive environment.

Ready to experience the benefits for yourself?

If you’re looking for a natural way to reduce stress, calm your nervous system and reconnect with joy, we’d love to welcome you to one of our Laughter Yoga classes.

Whether you’re completely new to laughter yoga or simply looking for a relaxing wellness activity to support your wellbeing, our friendly sessions offer a safe, supportive space where you can relax, connect with others and leave feeling lighter.