Using Laughter Therapy in Healthcare and Nursing
Chapter from the book:
Karakurt,
P.
(ed.)
2023.
Health Sciences Research: Nursing & Midwifery-III.
Synopsis
Laughter is a natural response that typically expresses joy or amusement, often manifesting as spontaneous, loud laughter. In the world of science, research on the positive effects and applications of laughter has a long history. Laughter therapy, also known as laughter yoga, is a type of therapy that consciously encourages positive emotional responses like laughter. This therapy includes various activities such as physical exercises, establishing eye contact, engaging in childlike games, and rhythmic hand clapping. Laughter therapy sessions, often referred to as "laughter yoga" sessions, are usually conducted for 20-30 minutes, at least twice a week, spanning a minimum of eight weeks. An assessment is conducted after the initial eight weeks to evaluate the therapeutic effect. The primary objectives of laughter therapy are versatile. It aims to assist individuals in dealing with life's challenges, reducing stress levels, restoring emotional balance, and elevating overall mood and vitality. Remarkably, it is recognized as a universally applicable treatment method due to its low cost and nearly non-existent side effects. The potential benefits of laughter therapy on health and quality of life are remarkable. It is believed that laughter can enhance happiness, relaxation, and social bonds, while also positively affecting physical health. By combining traditional laughter experiences with modern therapeutic approaches, this therapy has the potential to enhance both health and overall quality of life. In conclusion, laughter therapy harnesses the natural and contagious power of laughter to bring about numerous positive effects on health and emotional well-being. Its unique blend of physical, emotional, and social elements positions it as a promising approach to promote holistic health and enhance the quality of life for individuals from diverse backgrounds. This study is prepared with the aim of explaining the use of laughter therapy in the field of healthcare and nursing.