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Click here to add this blog to your feed and you will not miss out on any story 3E Story Blogathon Post #18 by Debbie Friend For Day 18 of the 3E Story Blogathon,  Laughter Yoga expert  shares her story about how she became a laughter yoga leader. So let us learn to live, LAUGH, love.... “I’m going to be trained to be a laughter yoga leader, “my friend enthusiastically declared during a phone conversation we were having. “That’s great,” I answered. Without missing a beat, she then asked, “Why don’t you do this with me?” My mouth must have been on auto-pilot, because before my brain had a chance to process what was being requested of me, I accepted her invitation. After I committed to this undertaking, I wondered what on earth possessed me to answer in the affirmative.  When the day of the workshop arrived, I was extremely apprehensive and worried obsessively about what I had gotten myself into and why I was doing this.  I quickly dis...

Living with Deepest Passion Series-3 Debbie Friend's story I believe that there are no accidents or coincidences in life. I also have faith that everything happens for a reason and when the time is right, it all makes perfect sense. When thinking about how I discovered my passion and how it changed my life, I had an “aha moment” and realized that all the ups and downs, twists and turns and beginnings and endings I've navigated through over the past several decades were— in actuality — meant to beautifully and meaningfully guide and direct my life’s trajectory to precisely where I am today and where I am meant to be. After earning my Master’s Degree in Exercise Physiology and Cardiac Rehabilitation, I spent years working in cardiac rehab, corporate wellness and adult fitness settings. Being passionate about wellness and health, I worked very hard to make a difference in others’ lives.  However, for the most part, I was dismayed to discover that as much as I was ...

  Tell us something about Laughter Yoga. Laughter yoga combines simulated laughter exercises with breathing techniques to produce a wide range of physical, psychological and emotional benefits. Best of all, one doesn’t need a sense of humor, be in a good mood or be happy to reap the numerous rewards. This non-political, non-religious and non-competitive activity is suitable for all age groups and fitness levels. A laughter session consists of a series of three simple and gentle exercises that are repeated one after the other and progressively infused with a lot of childlike playfulness.  Self-induced, simulated laughter can easily be converted into real laughter when done in a group. Laughter is contagious. Sessions usually last from 30 minutes to one hour. No special clothing or equipment is required. How does laughing improve our health? There are many positive mental and physical health benefits associated with mirthful laughter. Mood becomes elevated. Anxiety and depre...