Many see smiling simply as an involuntary response to things that bring you joy or laughter. While this observation is certainly true, what most people overlook is that smiling can be just as much a voluntary response as a conscious and powerful choice. Countless scientific studies have confirmed that a genuine smile is generally considered attractive to others around us. Other studies have shed light on how the act of smiling can elevate your mood, and the mood of those around you. Still, others have found a strong link between good health, longevity and smiling. Most importantly, studies have shown that just the act of smiling, whether the result of real joy or an act, can have both short and long term benefits on people’s health and wellbeing.
SMILING MAKES YOU ATTRACTIVE
You are naturally drawn to people who smile. There is a real physical attraction factor linked to the act of smiling. Not surprisingly, more severe or negative facial expressions like frowns, scowls, and grimaces actually work in the opposite manner, effectively pushing people away. Instead, use the attraction power of your smile to draw people in.
SMILING RELIEVES STRESS
Stress can permeate your entire being, and can really show up in your face. Smiling not only helps to prevent you from looking tired, worn down and overwhelmed but can actually help reduce stress. Believe it or not, smiling can reduce stress even if you don’t like smiling or even know that you are smiling. When you are stressed, take the time to put on a smile.
SMILING ELEVATES YOUR MOOD
Next time you are feeling down, try putting on a smile. There is a good chance your mood will change for the better. Smiling can trick the body into helping you elevate your mood because the physical act of smiling actually activates neural messaging in your brain. A simple smile can trigger the release of neural communication boosting neuropeptides as well as mood-boosting neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. Think of smiling like a natural anti-depressant.
SMILING IS CONTAGIOUS
How many smiles have been described as having the power to lighten up the room? While it is certainly a beautiful sentiment, it carries a hint if truth. Smiling not only has the power to elevate your mood, but it can also change the mood of others and make things lighter and happier.
SMILING BOOSTS YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM
Smiling can also boost your overall health. The act of smiling actually helps the human immune system to function more effectively. It is thought that when you smile, immune function improves because you are more relaxed.
Even when the smile feels unnatural or forced, it still sends the brain and ultimately the rest of your body the message that “Life is good!” Stay away from depression, stress, and worry by smiling.
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