From Stand-Up to Headstands: Behind My Surreal Feature on the BBC
It isn’t every day you open your DMs to discover that a global star has accepted your offer for a private yoga session—and it certainly isn’t every day the BBC writes an article about it!
Gosia Federowicz with Gianmarco Soresi in Harborne, Birmingham. Source: Author
Recently, I had the absolute joy of being featured in a BBC News article by Susie Rack after hosting American comedian and seasoned yogi Gianmarco Soresi at my home studio in Harborne, Birmingham. Here is the story behind the headline, what happened on the mat, and how joy and mindfulness fuel every class I teach.
How a Welcome to Birmingham Turned into a Private Session
As a longtime fan of Gianmarco’s stand-up, I had already booked tickets to see his live performance at Birmingham Town Hall on 30th September 2026. Knowing he frequently posts about practicing yoga while on tour, I took a chance and reached out on Instagram to offer local recommendations for food and studio space.
To my delight, he responded the day before his show asking to book a private session. Arriving slightly jetlagged but remarkably warm, friendly, and focused, Gianmarco requested a “strong practice.” Side-by-side under the infrared heaters, we moved through an advanced hot Vinyasa flow. Despite his 1.4 million Instagram followers and appearances on The Tonight Show, on the mat he was simply a regular person seeking physical grounding and mental clarity before a big performance.
He even posted a photo of himself mid-headstand in the studio to his followers, recommending the studio to anyone visiting Birmingham—and playfully noting that I asked him to measure the ceiling height after class!
The Serious Power of Laughter and Yoga
Stand-up comedy and yoga might seem like opposite ends of the spectrum, but they share the exact same goal: helping us break out of our heads, release accumulated tension, and present ourselves fully in the moment.
As a yoga therapist, artist, and Laughter Yoga Leader, I see every day how lightness and humor can transform our health. Laughter Yoga isn’t about telling jokes—it is a structured practice combining intentional laughter exercises with deep pranayama breathwork.
When you engage in intentional laughter:
- Cortisol can drop dramatically: Your body shifts out of “fight-or-flight” workplace stress.
- Endorphins can surge: Instant mood elevation and physical pain relief.
- Oxygen flow increases: Sharpening focus and boosting cardiovascular health.
Whether hosting an international comedian or leading a group of corporate employees, laughter reminds us that wellness doesn’t always have to feel quiet or serious. Sometimes, the most profound reset comes from simply letting go and laughing together.
Book a Laughter Yoga Workshop for Your Team or Event
If your workplace, community group, or retreat needs an uplifting boost, my Laughter Yoga Workshops offer an unforgettable experience. Designed for all fitness levels and abilities, these sessions foster team bonding, shatter stress, and leave participants feeling deeply re-energised.
- Workplace Wellbeing & Team Building: A fun, accessible way to boost morale and reduce desk fatigue.
- Private & Community Group Sessions: Tailored workshops for retreats, special events, or wellness days.
- In-Person (United Kingdom) or Online via Zoom/Teams.
Laughter is contagious, scientifically proven to heal, and accessible to everyone.
Get in touch below for a no-obligation chat to discuss a Laughter Yoga Workshop for your team.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general knowledge and educational purposes only. It should not be construed as professional health, legal, or business advice. Readers should always consult with appropriate health professionals, human resource experts, or legal advisors for specific concerns related to physical, mental health and wellbeing in the workplace. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of publication, Wellbeing In Your Office cannot be held responsible for any subsequent changes, updates, or revisions of the aforementioned content.