LAUGHTER yoga is among the tools used to promote the power of positivity by this Hampshire community interest company. 

Kim Furnish, from Cadnam, launched Instar Coaching back in 2017.

The mother of four and grandmother of four uses her knowledge and skills to bring positive psychology to the community using joyful activities.

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She is a great advocate of it never being too late to learn, having completed a Masters in Applied Positive Psychology and launched her own company since turning 60.

Kim’s holistic approach to business is drawn from her love of positive psychology, her experience as a relationship counsellor, previously supporting parents and carers, and her lived experience of mental illness and wellness. 

Daily Echo: Laughter yoga can promote positivityLaughter yoga can promote positivity (Image: Pexels)

Kim told the Daily Echo: "I believe that anyone can lead a happier, more fulfilling life given the right tools.

"I like to try new and innovative ways of working and wanted to spread the word. The first time I tried Laughter Yoga was at Champneys and I absolutely loved it.

"It's just so silly and you can completely immerse yourself in it.

"It teaches you to not care what others think!

"Although it's a worldwide activity it is not well practised locally, so I thought I'd change that. It has a really positive impact on the body. 

"A lot of it is about self care - sleep, hydration, and exercise. Then there's gratitude and being kind , they're quite small things that can make a big difference.

"Positivity is a practice, you've got to keep it up. People really seem to benefit from the different approach."

Daily Echo: Highlights from the first wellbeing day

Two wellbeing days are coming up, at The Copythorne & District Royal British Legion Hall on Saturdays May 27 and June 10.

Kicking off with laughter yoga, the events will also consist of a positivity session, meditation, self-care, reflection and journaling.

There are also regular walks in nature, at locations like Lepe or Exbury, and a host of online sessions to enjoy.

Kim, a published author, hosts a podcast Positivity: A Work in Progress, with fellow Diversity Award nominee Vie Portland, which aims to highlight how personal development and positive psychology can lead to a more fulfilling life.