Reduce stress, boost the immune system, stimulate the digestive system, increase awareness and have a greater enjoyment of living.
These are only a few of the alleged benefits of a new and growing health craze sweeping the nation. Members of the Palmerston Branch of Retired Women Teachers of Ontario (RWTO) got to experience “laughter yoga” first hand from guest speaker Dave Vervoort at their June 1 meeting.
Vervoort put the ladies through a series of movements and breathing exercises designed to stimulate laughter and cultivate a spirit of joy.
Laughter yoga was developed about 20 years ago by Dr. Madan Katari in India, who wanted to find an alternative way of treating patients suffering from illness related to stress. There are now more than 6,000 social laughter clubs around the world.
Donna McFarlane introduced Vervoort, who works for the Family Health Network in Mount Forest and is responsible for many outreach opportunities in the area such as working with isolated seniors and organizing the committee for HOPE (Healthy Opportunities Promoting Empowerment) group, which has helped bring awareness to mental health issues.
Vice President Oriole Blyth, along with Marya Pinder providing musical accompaniment, conducted a memorial service for three members who passed away over the last two years. Marie Spieran placed a rose in memory of her friend Ethel Whitfield who passed away in 2010 at the age of 99. In 2011 Edna Walker passed away at the age of 95. She was remembered with a rose and a few words by Betty Tarc. Shirley McKay had the honour of placing a rose and speaking fondly of her friend Iris Gray, who passed away this year at the age of 96. Oriole read two poems and a minute of silence was observed.
President Kathy Brown announced Lynn Hodgins and McFarlane will be taking over the membership position from Tarc and Shirley Jackson, who have held the position for many years. Brown thanked them for their hard work over the years.
Eight members travelled to Sault Ste. Marie for the annual convention June 5 to 7.
Brown closed the meeting by wishing everyone a great summer. The next meeting will be at Pike Lake on Sept. 4.
submitted by Joan Woods
