welcome to a2z healing toolbox®
Navigating grief and trauma with practical tools and resources
Laughter
Why consider laughter?
Nothing seems funny when grief and trauma barrel into life. Yet the psychological and physiological benefits of laughter have been researched and documented. It’s no wonder why comedian Bob Hope traveled to entertain the troops throughout World War II; it’s no wonder that physician Patch Adams continues to bring his clown-like antics to children in hospitals around the world; it’s no wonder that laughter yoga has become popular with groups of all ages. Whether forced or spontaneous, laughter can help heal life.
How does laughter promote healing?
By reducing feelings of anxiety and depression
By strengthening the immune system
By reducing levels of physical pain
By lowering blood pressure
TIPS:
Add comedy channels to your radio line-up
Watch comedians live, on YouTube or television
Surround yourself with funny people (children & animals can work well)
Check out a class in Laughter Yoga
Buy a bright orange Laffy Laffalot Toy to induce a daily chuckle
Resources
Games & Toys
- Laffy Laffalot by Steve Islava (toy for children and adults)
- Would You Rather…? The Game of Mind-Boggling Questions by Zobmondo!! (board game for kids and adults twelve and up)
Books
- My Husband Is Not a Rainbow: The Brutally Awful, Hilarious Truth about Life, Love, Grief, and Loss by Kelley Lynn
- The Laughing Cure: Emotional and Physical Healing—A Comedian Reveals Why Laughter Really Is the Best Medicine by Brian King
- Would You Rather…? Over 200 Absolutely Absurd Dilemmas to Ponder by Justin Heimberg and David Gomberg Games and Toys
Organizations
- American School of Laughter Yoga – Laughter clubs, conferences, and professional trainings.
- Laughter Yoga International – Laughter articles, blogs, books, CDs, DVDS, and videos.