What we’re about
Want to jumpstart your joy? Join us to get healthy & happified!
The global Laughter Yoga movement was started by Dr. Madan Kataria, an MD from India, in 1995. There are thousands of "Laughter Clubs" in over 110 countries around the world spreading peace and joy through laughter!
Laughter Yoga does not use the familiar "Hatha Yoga" poses or asanas. It is not based on humor or jokes, which are very subjective. Rather it combines playful, easy laughter exercises with yogic breathing and a final relaxation. And like yoga it IS a "practice", also called "intentional laughter", that taps into the mind-body connection to lift your mood, reduce stress, lower blood pressure and boost your immune system while you have fun. After laughing and playing with this fabulous group, you will leave energized and relaxed. How cool is that!
Oakland LIfefire Laughter Yoga was started in 2007 by Annie Goglia, a certified Laughter Yoga Teacher and Life Coach. Annie loves to share her laughter with others with an open heart. She was trained by the founder of Laughter Yoga, Dr. Kataria. In 2013, Certified Laughter Yoga Leader Liz Nichols joined her as co-leader.
We are usually a mix of "regulars" and newcomers. Drop-ins are super-welcome. No mats needed. Adults and older teens of all levels of physically fitness are welcome. Wear comfortable clothing for easier laughing.
Laughing with others is priceless. Oakland LifeFire Laughter Meetups are free! We welcome donations to help with our costs.
This "laughter club" meets 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, except major holidays. See the list of upcoming Meetups for the current schedule.
Want to learn more? Check out the Laughter Yoga International website: www.laughteryoga.org.
Visit Annie's website at www.lifefire.com and Liz's at liznichols.net.
For more information, see this wonderful article about laughter as therapy in Oakland Magazine, featuring Oakland LifeFire Laughter Yoga: www.oaklandmagazine.com/media/Oakland-Magazine/July-August-2009/Therapy.
