Most people smile without thinking twice, because it is a natural reaction to things that we find thoughtful, funny or happy. This natural reaction comes with many health benefits, and being mindful of smiling can help you to feel better and look your best.
Additionally, knowing the benefits of smiling ensures that you show your pearly whites every chance that you get!
Improved immunity
When you smile, it affects you on a biochemical level by releasing endorphins. Endorphins are natural painkillers, and they also help the body to combat signs of illness. If you smile often, you will be more resistant to things like the common cold, as well as the discomfort associated with muscle tension.
Younger appearance
Looking younger is always a good thing, and a big smile takes two years off of your looks. Researchers at the Max Planck Institute of Berlin examined more than one thousand pictures, and found that the pictures of individuals with the biggest smiles were most commonly associated with youth.
When matching the pictures to the actual people they depicted, researchers estimated each smiling person to be about two years younger than they actually were.
Increased happiness
When you smile, your body releases serotonin, which regulates sleep and mood, and has a natural antidepressant effect. When you smile more and increase your overall happiness, you will be more productive and will find that you enjoy everything more, maybe even things that used to be a hassle.
Less stress
Stress is something that you cannot avoid completely, but you can develop effective coping strategies so that its effects are not as severe. Smiling is one of the easiest ways to lessen your stress and make it easier to deal with.
More trust
People tend to trust other people more when they have a genuine smile. This helps to improve your relationships with your friends and family members. When you have a good relationship with those around you, you will see improvements in your mental and emotional health.
Better perspective
When it comes to life, most things are about perspective and how you view the bigger picture. When you smile, it gives you the chance to take a step back and really assess the situation, so that you can stop stressing over the small things that have a lesser impact that you realize.
You will also enjoy a greater sense of alertness, so that you are able to make the most logical decision for the situation.
Emotional strength
If you are in an emotionally taxing situation, taking a minute to smile can help you to center yourself and increase the strength of your emotional state. You can do this anywhere to help rein in those negative emotions that are throwing off your day. Even if you have to force a smile, you will reap many of the same benefits.
The next time someone tells you to smile, take advantage of the opportunity. It just may be the most natural way to be truly happier and healthier.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://www.westervilledental.com/ten-reasons-to-keep-smiling.php
http://longevity.about.com/od/lifelongbeauty/tp/smiling.htm
http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/wellness_articles.asp?id=1529
http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-16514/11-powerful-reasons-to-smile.html
