The holiday season has arrived! This time of year may bring you excitement and joy, stress, or a strange combination of these emotions. Everyone has that one relative—I’m talking to you, second cousin Tim—you know, the one that can make family gatherings awkward, uncomfortable, or even stressful at times.
Have you ever heard the phrase “fake it ’til you make it”? It may come as a surprise, but with smiling, this phrase can come in handy.
Smiling Can Change Your Mood
We’re sure you’re aware that when you’re happy, you smile—but did you know that the reverse can also be true? Different studies have been performed that show smiling can help people feel happier and less stressed.
The physical act of smiling gives your brain the feedback that there is something to be happy about. So even a “fake” smile can give you a mood boost.
However, if you want to get the biggest impact, make it a true smile. When you really smile about something, you tend to smile with more facial muscles than just the corners of your mouth. Your eyes will actually smile too! Laughing helps you get a true smile.
Find things at your family gatherings that make you smile and laugh, so even second cousin Tim can’t get you down!
Smiling Is Good Your Health
Every time you smile, your brain does a little happy dance. The feel-good neurotransmitters (endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin) are released when you smile. This not only makes your body feel relaxed, but it can also lower your blood pressure and heart rate.
According to biochemist and artist Sondra Barrett, smiling helps your cell function and helps reduce the development of various cancers.
Plus, the serotonin that’s released when you smile serves as a natural anti-depressant. So, the next time someone asks you why you smile so much, tell them, “It’s good for my health!”
Smiling Makes You Look Better
You actually look better when you smile, and we’re not just saying that! There’s a study from the University of Aberdeen, Scotland that discovered both men and women found a person to be more attractive when they made eye contact and smiled.
Additionally, a 2004 Penn State University study found that smiling can make a person appear more friendly, likable, and competent.
It’s no wonder a smile is contagious! And you have the power to make a whole room happier just by smiling.
Here’s to the happiest holidays.
Here at [practice_name], we are proud to give you the smile you deserve! Call our office at [phone] today to learn more about our services, and to schedule a visit with Dr. [doctor_name] in [city], [state].
