Lauren and Alik Colbert have chosen an unusual path – they have decided to turn laughter into their business. They are not comedians or the stars of a new romantic comedy on Netflix. Instead, they are carving out a lucrative niche for themselves with Laughing Love Bugs. They have experienced the many benefits of laughter therapy firsthand and you don’t even need a sense of humor or yoga pants to enjoy them. Laughter yoga was created by Medical Dr. Madan Kataria of India in 1995 and it is gaining popularity rapidly. This married couple of instructors is at the forefront of this movement. Their big vision is to create a full brand consisting of books, videos, and other wellness tools to share their knowledge that helps lower stress and blood sugar, alleviate pain, and boost the immune system, just to name a few of the many benefits. They plan to spread their positive message that joy helps to heal, and I have no doubt that they will succeed.
The concept of laughter yoga sounds unique. How is it like traditional yoga and how does it differ?
The concept of laughter yoga indeed stands out as a unique practice. It shares a similarity with traditional yoga through the incorporation of deep breathing techniques known as Pranayama. However, what sets laughter yoga apart is the integration of laughter exercises alongside these breathing techniques- no sense of humor is required. Notably, unlike traditional yoga no mats or poses are required & you do not have to have flexibility. This distinctiveness helps it to stand out from regular yoga.
How did you & your wife become certified Laughter Yoga Instructors?
Our journey to Becoming Certified Laughter Yoga Instructors began during significant professional challenges. While faced with intense workplace stress, we were searching for a way to relieve stress and rejuvenate our well-being. During one of our initial laughter yoga sessions, we underwent a deeply personal shift. Motivated by this transformative experience, we decided to explore laughter yoga further and eventually pursued certification to become instructors ourselves.
What type of reactions do you get from people & potential clients when you tell them you are both laughter yoga instructors?
When we initially share that we’re laughter yoga instructors, we often receive a range of reactions from people and potential clients. Many inquire about how we encourage laughter during the sessions without using comedy or jokes and whether we partake in laughter ourselves. Interestingly, they are often surprised when they learn that flexibility or a sense of humor is not a prerequisite for participation.
What is one of your favorite techniques to introduce for ultimate relaxation?
One simple technique to introduce relaxation is unwinding with laughter waves. This exercise envelops participants in a calming embrace of laughter that mirrors the soothing ebb & flow of gentle waves. This exercise fosters a sense of well-being as the robust laughter grows in intensity with each new round of “Ha Ha’s” & beyond. The exercise seamlessly merges the concept of unwinding with tranquility allowing participants to ride the waves of relaxation & joy as they count their laughter.
You have worked with major corporations such as Google & 1-800-Flowers. How have you helped them with your wellness therapy?
We have facilitated team-building experiences that effectively transform workplace cultures. Our interventions span professional & leadership development, ultimately enhancing employment engagement. One remarkable aspect of our approach is the ability to foster connections among employees regardless of their hierarchical positions.
You are a couple that also works together. Have you seen laughter therapy personally help strengthen your relationship?
Without a doubt, laughter therapy has undeniably enhanced our relationship in profound ways. It has allowed us to share laughter even during the most trying circumstances, ultimately fortifying our bond. By laughing together, we are reminded not to take ourselves too seriously and to cherish the simple joys in life. Through laughter therapy, we’ve learned that communication and connection go hand in hand, and they play an essential role in nurturing a thriving and enduring relationship.
When did you decide this was your lane of therapy?
Our journey into this lane of therapy began after an enlightening laughter yoga session that transformed our entire life’s perspective. This experience propelled us to seek certification as laughter yoga teachers, driven by the eagerness to delve deeper into this practice & share the life-changing benefits we had encountered with others.
I believe laughter is a form of medicine for the soul. How did you begin to scientifically research the benefits of laughing while exercising?
Laughter yoga or “Laughtercises”, presents a remarkable fusion of physical and mental rewards. It offers a robust cardiovascular workout that bolsters the immune system, enhances oxygen intake, and even aids digestion. This unique approach also aids in muscle toning and the relief of bodily pain & tension.
I think it’s safe to say that most people enjoy laughing. I certainly do, and I’ve been told that I have a cheerful, upbeat personality and a great smile. It’s not just about feeling good in the moment, laughter has real benefits for our mental and physical health. It triggers the release of endorphins in our brains, which can make us feel happy and relaxed. Recently, I learned of Laughter Yoga through research. It’s a practice that combines deep breathing exercises with playful, childlike laughter. I was intrigued when I heard Stephen Colbert talk about it on his show, and I’d love to learn more. If you’re interested in exploring Laughter Yoga further, Alik & Lauren Colbert offer a four-day laughter retreat called the Monthly Fly-by Getaway. Their next retreat is coming up soon in Tulum, Mexico, and they also offer wellness training for offices and organizations. You can check out their website at www.laughinglovebugs.com. The Colberts are clearly passionate about the benefits of laughter, and they’ve made it their mission to share those benefits with others. They’ve even created merchandise and have plans to build a Laughter Retreat center called Laughing Love Bugs Land. I have no doubt that this center will be a success and will continue to spread joy and healing to everyone who visits.
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