Laughter and Therapy: A New Fitness Approach
The “Endorphin-Engine” Workout
Combining Laughter Therapy with Strength Training
This routine is designed to take 15 minutes. It follows the Motion Creates Emotion (MCET) principle: we use the body to force the mind into a state of determination.
Phase 1: The “Laughter Squat” (Lower Body)
Squats are the foundation of physical strength. Adding a vocal component helps maintain breathing and reduces the perceived exertion.
- The Move: Standard Squat (feet shoulder-width apart, chest up).
- The Laughter Integration: As you descend, hold your breath. As you power back up to a standing position, let out a loud, forced “Ha-Ha-Ha!”
- Repetitions: 3 sets of 12.
- The Benefit: The “Ha” sound forces a full exhalation, engaging your core and preventing the “seriousness” that zaps your energy.
Phase 2: Arm “Joy-Presses” (Upper Body)
If you are using light weights or just bodyweight, this focuses on range of motion and “Simulated Joy.”
- The Move: Overhead Press or Bicep Curls.
- The Laughter Integration: With every extension of the arms, smile as wide as physically possible. Even a “fake” smile triggers the release of neuropeptides.
- Repetitions: 3 sets of 15.
- The Benefit: By connecting arm extensions with a facial “grin,” you are conditioning your brain to associate physical effort with positive emotional feedback.
Phase 3: The “Tricep Titter” (Arm Definition)
- The Move: Tricep Dips (using a chair or bench).
- The Laughter Integration: On each dip, try a “silent laugh” (shaking the diaphragm without making noise).
- The Benefit: This doubles the core workout. The diaphragm movement involved in laughter mimics a secondary “crunch.”
Weekly Tracking for Resolutions
| Day | Squats (Sets) | Arms (Sets) | Laughter Level (1-10) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | |||
| Tuesday | |||
| Wednesday | |||
| Thursday | |||
| Friday |
Pro-Tip for Consistency:
According to the behavioral health principles we discussed, the hardest part is the transition. If you feel too tired to start, tell yourself you will only do one “Laughter Squat.” Usually, the physical motion will create the emotion needed to finish the set.
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