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ATRA SoCal : 2026 Session Description
October 17–19, 2026
The Embassy Suites, Brea, California
2026 ATRA Annual Conference – Session Descriptions
October 17–19, 2026 | Brea, CA
The following is the Session Descriptions for the 2026 ATRA Annual Conference in Brea, CA. All sessions, times, and presenter information have been confirmed, though final adjustments may occur due to unforeseen circumstances onsite.
For a visual Calendar view, please visit: Schedule at a Glance
For information on our On Demand Conference offerings, please visit: ATRA SoCal On Demand
Continuing Education (CEUs):
NCTRC pre-approval is pending fr all sessions for CEUs.
Once the program is pre-approved; For questions related to specialty certification areas, please refer to the PDF version of the program for designation icons and CEU-eligible sessions.
Code of Conduct:
All attendees, speakers, exhibitors, and guests are expected to uphold the ATRA Conference Code of Conduct.
To review the Code, view it here.
Note on Non-ATRA Activities:
Please note that any events or activities not listed in the official ATRA SoCal program are independently organized and not affiliated or sponsored by ATRA. ATRA is not responsible for independently coordinated events, meetups or activities not articulated in this program. Individuals interested in non-ATRA sponsored activities should contact their respective organizations directly for details.
Laughter as Medicine: Evidence-Based Strategies for Recreation Therapy Practice
Session Description
In this session, participants will explore how laughter can serve as a therapeutic tool, naturally increasing endorphins while reducing cortisol—the stress hormone linked to numerous health conditions. Attendees will learn how these physiological effects support mental, emotional, and physical well-being and how to apply laughter yoga interventions effectively in recreation therapy programs. Laughter yoga is an evidence-based, playful practice that combines intentional laughter with mindful breathing to enhance mood, social connection, and overall wellness. This session highlights current research demonstrating its positive impact on stress, mood, social interaction, and physiological outcomes, helping participants connect the evidence directly to therapeutic recreation practice. Through discussion and guided demonstrations, participants will examine categories of laughter yoga techniques, including breathing-focused exercises, laughter-focused activities, and integrated approaches that combine movement and vocalization. Emphasis will be placed on designing, facilitating, and evaluating these interventions safely and effectively for diverse client populations. Attendees will leave inspired with practical strategies to confidently implement laughter yoga, supported by research, while fostering fun, connection, and well-being in their programs. This session equips recreation therapists with tools to integrate an innovative, evidence-based approach into clinical and community settings, enhancing client engagement and therapeutic outcomes.
Learning Outcomes
1. Explain at least three benefits of laughter yoga on physical, emotional, and social well-being. 2. Demonstrate two or more laughter yoga exercises and describe their use in therapy settings. 3. Design and evaluate a laughter yoga session for a specific client group, using at least one measurable outcome to assess its effectiveness.
Practice Area: Select ALL that Apply
Behavioral Health
Business/Private Practice
Child and Adolescent
Community
Higher Education
Management
Military/Veterans
Older Adults
Physical Rehabilitation and Medicine
Research
Schools
Other
All
Target Audience
New Graduates/New Professionals
Educators/Researchers
Mid-Career Professionals
Seasoned Professionals
Primary Presenter
![[photo]](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/9c0b9e10ac2e225b56cec8ed43d50d5c.png?d=https://proposalspace.com/images/no_photo.png&r=PG&s=50 "Keelin Jardin, MS and BS, California State University, East Bay")
Keelin Jardin, MS and BS, California State University, East Bay
Biographical Information
Dr. Keelin Jardin is a certified recreation therapist and certified Laughter Yoga Teacher with a passion for promoting wellness and emotional well-being. She holds a PhD in Mind-Body Medicine and specializes in therapeutic recreation, creative interventions, and mind-body practices. With extensive experience in both academic and clinical settings, Dr. Jardin has worked with diverse populations, focusing on stress reduction, mental health, and holistic healing. She is also a lecturer at California State University, East Bay, and a recreation therapy consultant.