Laughter Yoga can help in Managing Fibromyalgia
Date: June 14, 2023
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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.