Live, Laugh, Love
Well-being motivator, trainer and speaker Sam Rehan, 50, from Sussex, helps people to get more in touch with their humorous side…
Looking out at the cold weather, I felt glum. It was winter 2015 and I felt overwhelmed. Within a week, a close family member suddenly passed away, I was told I was going to be made redundant, and my landlord said I needed to start thinking about finding new accommodation.
I was also a single mother with two young children and my son, Eshan, was receiving weekly blood transfusions due to his rare form of anaemia. Feeling physically, mentally, and emotionally tired, I looked for new way to manage my all of my emotions.
I came across clips on the internet of very young babies gurgling and chortling. Suddenly, my whole body began to relax as I started to smile and laugh with them.
I knew that if laughter could have
this impact on me, then it could help others, too.
I used my background as a developmental scientist to research and then trained in laughter yoga.
From this, I created Laughter Wellbeing, a relaxation programme using science-based techniques.
Now, I give laughter sessions in all sorts of places.
I’ve helped people with dementia, disabilities, teenagers with autism, seniors, children and have been sent into workplaces.
My favourite has to be the session I had in an operating theatre with 11 theatre nurses.
Most people said they felt more energised, more relaxed and were surprised at how good they could feel from belly laughter.
I’ve heard powerful stories after my sessions, too.
A lady had spent three years grieving after the loss of a family member, but after laughing with me, she felt the best she had in years.
If you want to laugh more, spend time with people who laugh easily and who are playful.
Seek out laughter yoga clubs, watch comedy films with friends and organise fun group activities with loved ones.
If you are finding it difficult, start by smiling more and your laughter will soon emerge.
l To find out more visit: samrehan.com