A funny thing happened on the way to the gym. People are giggling their way to toned abs, improved immune systems and inner peace with Laughter Yoga—yogic breathing paired with intentional laughter. Started in India and now practiced around the world, it’s fast becoming a fitness craze. “It’s relevant to the times we live in,” says Sebastien Gendry, founder of the American School of Laughter Yoga. “People are more stressed than ever.” The relief that Laughter Yoga brings is no joke, and anyone can practice it—anytime, anywhere. But it’s best done in a group, as laughter is contagious, says Gendry.

Why it works
The laughter is self-triggered. But the body can’t tell the difference between fake and real laughter, so you reap all the same benefits—increased endorphins, better blood flow and more oxygen to the body and brain.

What to do
Start by smiling in a mirror. Shoot for a genuine smile that uses the eye muscles in addition to mouth muscles. Breathe deeply. Smile and breathe. Add movement (swing your arms side to side). In a one-two, one-two-three rhythm, chant ho ho, ha ha ha while clapping. Breathe deeply. Laugh. Repeat.