Perceived changes
depressive emotions
MUSCLE RELAXATION
After participating in DLT, participants reported numerous changes, encompassing physical, emotional, social, self-perception, and stress-coping domains. Under the physical changes category, two sub-categories, “feeling relaxed and energized” and “transition from awkward to natural smile,” emerged. Participants reported that the experiences from the program fostered a sense of bodily comfort and energy, and they observed muscle relaxation. Participant R2 described her experience, stating, Regarding emotional changes, two sub-categories, “simulated laughter evolving into genuine happiness” and “alleviation of depressive emotions through laughter,” emerged. Participants initially believed that laughter was solely a result of feeling happy, but they discovered that the act of laughing itself lifted their moods. Participant R3 shared, Regarding the social aspect, a single sub-category, “improved social relations,” emerged. Participants reported enhancements in their relationships, particularly with family members, after participating in DLT. For instance, participant R3 shared a joyful experience with her family using what she learned from the therapy: Numerous participants also reported shifts in their self-perception, falling into two sub-categories: “rediscovering lost smiles” and “boosting self-esteem through self-focus.” As they had primarily identified as mothers and wives for an extended period, the program enabled them to reconnect with their individual identities. Observing their smiles on screen, participants realized they had rediscovered their lost smiles. Participant R4 reflected, “Lastly, participants discussed their improved stress-coping abilities, encapsulated by two sub-categories: “managing stress through laughter” and “commitment to change and continued efforts.” When feeling overwhelmed, they applied the laughing techniques learned from the DLT, finding it effective in mitigating their stress. Participant R5 noted, 