Laughing yoga instructor Tod Whitehurst first came across laughter yoga while visiting an ashram in Yogaville, Va. After suffering post-traumatic stress from the shootings at Virginia Tech, Whitehurst felt a huge change in his mood after attending one laughing yoga session. The Laughter Club of the New River Valley now meets twice a month at Blue Ridge School of Massage and Yoga in Blacksburg.

What keeps 'em laughing? Hearing someone laugh makes other people laugh, or so they say.

But is it "regular" yoga -- as in the stretching, breathing and relaxation routines? Devotees say yes, because the laughter is an intentional and sustained practice, much like other types of yoga.