Laughter clubs are social clubs where people get together and do Laughter Yoga exercises usually for an hour to reap multiple health benefits of laughter and breathing exercises. It provides a rich social network of caring and sharing relationships. Laughter clubs are FREE for all and there is no membership fee, no forms and no fuss. Though the clubs are usually run by certified laughter leaders and teachers, it is not mandatory. Social laughter clubs can also be started by people trained informally by certified leaders and teachers.
The clubs are non-political, non-religious and non-profit organizations run under the auspices of Laughter Yoga International. Our ultimate objective is to bring good health, joy and world peace through laughter. Though Laughter clubs are free but any costs involved in organization and hiring of the venue must be shared by members. In India these clubs meet every morning in public parks and club members proudly say that they haven’t missed a single day because it makes them happy, healthy and energized – in fact it has changed their lives.
There are a number of issues to be considered and decisions to be made before you start. Consider how often you will meet. This depends on your availability, venue issues and your target audience.
Core group
As a leader you will be crucial to the operation of the club until you can develop a core group who begin to take over responsibility, something that often takes a year or more. During startup there will be a great deal of extra work including venue hunting, promotion, seminars and more. Make sure you have adequate time and energy to undertake these tasks without becoming stressed.
Frequency & timing
Daily meetings are best in terms of benefits for yourself and participants, but for many this will not be practical. Consider meeting once or twice a week, or even less frequently. The days of the week are also important. Weekends may be easier for many people (and for you if you work also).
Consider meeting times. Early morning is excellent in terms of benefits and our body. Evenings may be practical, but some people may have difficulty sleeping on the laughter energy high, although this can be countered by incorporating relaxation techniques at the session’s end. What times are practical for your target audience? When is your venue available?
Ask potential members what times they would prefer.
Venue
Finding a free or very cheap venue to meet can be a challenge. During some seasons you may be able to meet outdoors in a park, but what about rainy or cold winter seasons? Even in a park you may require permits, do your research.
Church halls, community centers, scout halls, public libraries, museums, hospitals or clinics may provide free venues if you do not charge. Another option is to meet at someone’s home. If there are companies or organizations with an ideal space, ask them to donate the space in exchange for sponsorship promotion. They will generate goodwill among members.
Make sure the venue matches your group size, that it has adequate ventilation, toilet facilities and heating if you have cold winters. Be careful that you will not disturb neighbors as laughter clubs can get very noisy. Is the floor suitable for sitting or lying down? Also, beware of very high ceilings as laughter energy could be dissipated and echo may be a problem.
Try at all times to avoid costs or keep costs very low. Laughter clubs need to be provided as a free service. If there are costs for venues and other necessities, these can be defrayed by making a small charge or asking for donations. You can also look for sponsor who will gain considerable goodwill from members of the club by helping to keep it free. |
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Laughter Yoga