Abstract
ObjectiveTo examine whether laughter yoga (LY), i.e., simulated laughter, alters cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) levels and cortisol/DHEA (C/D) ratios. MethodsIn a randomized controlled trial, 120 healthy university students were allocated to experiencing LY, watching a comedy movie (spontaneous laughter), or reading a book. Salivary cortisol and DHEA levels were measured immediately before, immediately after, and 30 min after the intervention. ResultsCortisol levels and C/D ratios significantly decreased by time in the LY and comedy movie groups. Significant group*time interactions were found between these two groups for cortisol levels and C/D ratios. DHEA levels did not change by time in the LY group. ConclusionsLY decreased cortisol levels and C/D ratios but did not affect DHEA levels. Simulated and spontaneous laughter differently affected the dynamics of cortisol levels and C/D ratios. Effect of spontaneous laughter on the cortisol dynamics lasted longer than that of simulated laughter. (UMIN000019409).
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
