Effects of Laughter Yoga on Hemodialysis Patients' Plasma-Beta Endorphin Levels, Pain Levels and Sleep Quality

The laughter yoga practice was initiated through clapping and warm-up exercises: hands were clapped keeping hands in parallel with each other and ensuring that the fingertips touched each other. To increase the energy level of the group, a rhythmic beat was added to the clapping in the form of 1-2, 1-2-3. While this was being sung a rhythm was tapped out on the floor by moving the feet up and down. Eye contact was constantly maintained with the participants. In the second phase, deep breathing exercises were performed. Participants were encouraged to inhale from the diaphragm. Individuals were asked to put their hands on their belly and inhale through the nose and then slowly exhale through the mouth. After the deep breathing exercise, the participants were encouraged to laugh through playing children's games in the third phase.