120: Laughter Yoga is a Blessing with Larry O’Brien

“Laughter is a blessing and if you can laugh when there’s nothing to laugh at — you’ve got it.”- Larry

When you look at the things that Larry has been through, it is easy to wonder how he affords to keep laughing. Larry has multiple sclerosis, and as if that’s not enough, he suffers from bipolar. To help cope with the bipolar disorder without being on medication, Larry started practicing meditation and went to support meeting for people with bipolar. He then discovered laughing therapy which enhanced his life.

Today, Larry is a laughter leader; believe it or not, he runs his sessions from his wheelchair. He argues that if a person like him who is in a wheelchair can laugh and have a good time, why not you? He currently works with a bank and runs sessions for the seniors at Hope Alzheimer’s clinic in Rhode Island.

In this episode, Larry will share his laughter journey, how laughter has been instrumental to his life and how he copes with multiple sclerosis and bipolar. He has a fantastic story that you cannot afford to miss. Listen to this episode.

Key Talking Points of the Episode:

[02:05] How Larry O’Brien discovered laughter yoga

[03:51] The maniac depressive Association

[04:34] What is bipolar?

[06:32] What happens to your body when you laugh?

[07:46] Why is it essential for us to laugh?

[10:31] What happened when Larry discovered laughter yoga?

[11:48] Symptoms of multiple sclerosis 

[15:10] How Larry conducts laughter in a wheelchair

[20:51] How laughter has enhanced Larry’s life

[21:51] Larry’s laughter practice

[23:45] Larry’s laughter success stories

[26:32] Larry’s message to people who are shy to try laughter yoga

[32:50] Larry’s favourite laughter exercises

[35:48] Three things that bring Larry joy

Standout Quotes from the Episode:

“It’s essential to learn to laugh deliberately and use it as a weapon. Use it as your sword and shield.”

“You laugh and the world laughs with you crying you cry alone.”

Connect with Larry O’Brien:

Website: https://www.providencelaughterclub.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ProvidenceLaughterClub/