TUCSON, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

They say that laughter is the best medicine, and SCAN Health Plan agrees. Tucson seniors will have the opportunity to learn just how therapeutic it is at a Laughter Yoga event, sponsored by SCAN Health Plan Arizona and held in honor of World Laughter Day in May.

World Laughter Day was created in 1998 in India by Dr. Madan Kataria, founder of the worldwide Laughter Yoga movement. On Sunday, May 5, SCAN will be sponsoring a session of Laughter Yoga for anyone who wants to join in the fun. The World Laughter Day celebration will take place at 10 a.m. at McCormick Park, 2950 North Columbus Blvd., in Tucson. Laughter Leader Emily Vance, Ph.D., a certified yoga instructor, will be guiding participants. No registration is required. For more information, call 520-609-7789.

Laughter Yoga is a type of exercise that combines laughter, yogic breathing and unique exercise movements. Participants breathe in and out very deeply and very slowly through the nose. When performed within a group of people, the result is nonstop, hearty laughter no jokes needed. Because Laughter Yoga can be done sitting or standing, it works for people of all ages regardless of physical condition. Laughter Yoga started with just five people and has since spread to more than 6,000 Laughter Clubs in 60 countries.

Like other forms of yoga, Laughter Yoga is beneficial for everyone because it:

Improves circulation and moves oxygen through the body. Lowers stress and relieves pain. Strengthens the bodys immune system, which helps fight off disease. Improves mental alertness and memory. Creates a positive state of mind and boosts self-esteem.

For 35 yearsSCAN Health Plan has been focusing on the unique needs of people with Medicare and today is one of the largest not-for-profit Medicare Advantage plans in the United States. SCAN Health Plan Arizona serves approximately 12,000 members in Maricopa and Pima counties. Further information is available at scanhealthplan.com.

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SCAN Health Plan Arizona Honors World Laughter Day with Laughter Yoga Event in Tucson