There is a saying that I am sure everyone has heard at least once: one smile can make all the difference in the world. This is true on many levels.
In childhood, smiling tends to happen quickly and effortlessly. Children smile as they enjoy living in the moment, playing and discovering the wonders that can only happen during childhood. As adults, it is easy to get caught up in the tedium and stresses of daily life. Smiling happens less, and often can seem difficult. It is during difficult times, however, when one should make greater effort to find a reason to smile.
Research has shown that there are a number of health benefits to smiling. Neurotransmitters called Endorphins are released when you smile. Endorphins are responsible for making us feel happy. They also act as natural pain-killers. When they are released, the stress hormone Cortisol is reduced, which helps our bodies to lower stress levels. Thus, smiling, whether forced, faked, or genuine, can be highly effective in helping us to feel better, to manage chronic pain, or to help get through a difficult situation.
Physiologically, it takes fewer muscles to smile than it does to frown. There is a variance in reports on the exact number of muscles it takes to frown or smile, but the numbers don’t lie. It takes between 45-60 muscles to frown, whereas it takes only 17-26 muscles to smile. That is a significant difference! Why expend your energy being negative? Put your energy to better use! Smile, and see how good it makes you feel.
“A smile is the prettiest thing you can wear” (unknown). A smiling person exudes happiness, approachability, confidence, optimism, relaxation, and overall attractiveness. These qualities all serve to benefit attitude, lead to positive behaviors, and can be highly effective towards making this world a better place!