Conference Proceeding: Laughing for Wellbeing
Keywords:
positive psychology, positive emotions, laughter, positive psychology interventions, laughter yoga, Middle East, fear of happiness, broaden and build theoryAbstract
This presentation sought to introduce laughter exercises as a positive psychology intervention (PPI) to a Middle Eastern audience. It aimed to provide a brief delineation of related concepts (specifically laughter, playfulness and humour) and situate them in the context of positive psychology, mainly through their link to positive emotions and the Broaden and Build theory. Laughter Yoga, a form of laughter exercise based on unconditional laughter, yogic breathing and playfulness, was introduced as an example of a laughter PPI. Limitations of laughter yoga in the context of cultural suitability were discussed, specifically with respect to fear of happiness.References
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