Laughter Yoga can help in Managing Fibromyalgia
What Is Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic musculoskeletal condition, which causes extensive body pain and affects the muscles and joints throughout the body. It makes one feel fatigued and also brings on some mental symptoms like memory problems.
People with fibromyalgia usually experience symptoms that come and go but navigating through these flare ups leaves one feeling extremely exhausted. People feel as if they have no energy or that they have slept badly and have got up feeling unrested. One is not yet sure what causes fibromyalgia but stress, changes in life and certain health conditions can trigger the pain.
Symptoms
People above 40, having chronic illnesses like osteoarthritis, depression, anxiety disorders, back pain and irritable bowel syndrome are more likely to develop fibromyalgia. But it can affect anyone, including children. Females are twice as likely to experience fibromyalgia.
The two most common symptoms of fibromyalgia are pain and fatigue. In addition, you may experience:
- Muscle pain or tenderness
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Bladder control problem
- Diarrhea and constipation
- Depression and anxiety
- Sleep disorders like insomnia
Laughter Yoga can help in managing Fibromyalgia in several ways:
Reducing stress
Laughter Yoga is known to lower stress levels, as it stimulates the production of endorphins and other feel-good hormones. Reducing stress can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with Fibromyalgia, as stress is known to exacerbate the condition.
Improving mood
Laughter Yoga can help lift one's mood by increasing the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood regulation. A positive mood can help Fibromyalgia patients cope better with their symptoms.
Enhancing pain tolerance
Laughter Yoga can help increase pain tolerance by releasing endorphins, which are natural painkillers. This can be particularly helpful for Fibromyalgia patients, who often experience chronic pain.
Boosting the immune system
Laughter has been found to improve the function of the immune system, which can help the body better manage Fibromyalgia symptoms and prevent secondary infections.
Improving sleep
Laughter Yoga can help promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can contribute to better sleep quality. As sleep disturbances are common in Fibromyalgia patients, improved sleep can help alleviate some of the symptoms.
Increasing social connection
Laughter Yoga is often practiced in groups, which can help individuals with Fibromyalgia to connect with others, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
