There are days where all you need is a little pick-me-up. Maybe it was a stressful day at work, or you didn’t get enough sleep the night before, and it’s got you feeling a little down. Well, science is finally telling us that the famous lyrics “you’re never fully dressed without a smile” are true, and a simple smile may have more of a positive psychological impact than expected.
Science of smiling
Recent studies have shown that smiling has a significant impact on reducing stress-related hormones and increasing mood-enhancing hormones, while frowning does the exact opposite. Frowning less also has similar effects to smiling more as they both result in more positive thinking or at least a more positive outlook. Related studies have also shown that smiling isn’t just a result of feeling happy, it is also a way to increase feelings of happiness. This was a hypothesis originally made by Charles Darwin, and many scientists since have worked to learn more about these emotion enhancers and how we read and interpret the emotions of those around us.
Lifting others
Besides the boost in our positive mindset, smiling more has also been proven to enhance the moods of people around us. Since humans often mimic the expressions of others, smiling more helps others smile more, thus enhancing their mood and often their perspective on their day. Specific studies have proven that endorphins are released from our brains when we see a smiling face, which in turn makes us more likely to smile as well. Smiling happily truly is contagious!
Smile confidently
Since smiling is so important for our mental health, it is also important to take care of that smile. Going to the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings are vital to keeping your smile radiant and healthy. Everyone is born with the ability to make the world more positive with their smile, so it is up to us to take care of that gift.
A lot of people struggle to feel emotionally or mentally well, even despite their best efforts. Sometimes smiling isn’t enough to break the funk. While we may have some ideas about what causes and helps with depression and stress, there’s still so much to learn and so many people to educate. That’s why we’re dedicated to funding the promotion of mental health awareness.