Smile More: Simple Smile Techniques for Positive Thinking
Happiness and positivity are key ingredients to living a fulfilling life. Despite common belief that success or material wealth is the key to happiness, the reality is that happiness and positivity start from within. One of the simplest ways to invite positivity into our lives is by smiling more often.
Smiling has a remarkable impact on our mental and physical health. It can release endorphins, which can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Furthermore, it can help build better relationships as it makes us more approachable and likable. This article will discuss some straightforward smile techniques that can help maintain a positive outlook on life.
The Power of A Smile:
A smile is a powerful tool that influences how others perceive us. It is known as a universal language of kindness. Genuinely smiling can help convey warmth, confidence, and happiness. Smiling is an invitation for others to engage with us, which can help form better relationships and create new friendships.
Smiling has a chemical effect on the body as well. When we smile, our brain releases endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good hormones. These endorphins not only make us feel happy but also help reduce stress and pain. Additionally, the physical act of smiling can lower heart rates, blood pressure, and stress levels.
Smiling is beneficial to both the mind and body. It can help regulate our emotions and keep a positive outlook on life. However, what happens when we do not feel like smiling?
Fake It Till You Make It:
Although we might not feel like smiling, faking a smile can be an effective way to trick the mind into believing that we’re happy. Even though it may feel forced, the physical act of smiling can lift our mood and make us feel better. Research from the University of Kansas found that even faking a smile can reduce stress levels. Smiling, even when we don’t feel like it, reduces the intensity of our emotional response to a stressful situation. The act of smiling sends a signal to the brain that everything is okay, which can help reduce anxiety and stress.
Fake smiling alone may not resolve the problem causing stress, but it can help us cope with the situation better. When feeling down, try faking a smile to see if it helps.
The Duchenne Smile:
Not all smiles are created equal. The Duchenne smile or a genuine smile is the most effective type of smile. A Duchenne smile involves using the orbicularis oculi muscles, which control eye movement. This muscle contraction creates “crow’s feet” around the eyes, which is a telltale sign of a genuine smile.
The Duchenne smile has proven to be more effective than a forced or fake smile in conveying positive emotions. People tend to rate those with Duchenne smiles as more likable, approachable, and trustworthy. To practice the Duchenne smile, think of something that genuinely makes you happy and allows you to feel that emotion. Then, slowly let the smile spread across your face until you feel the crow’s feet around your eyes. Finally, hold the smile for a few seconds and release it slowly. Practice makes perfect and by improving the Duchenne smile, positive emotions can be better conveyed, improving relationships with others.
Smiling in Social and Workplace Situations:
Smiling is an excellent tool to use in social situations as it can help you feel more confident and comfortable and encourage others to approach you. However, it is crucial to know when to smile and how much to smile. In social gatherings, a genuine smile can signal that someone is open to engaging with others, making them appear more approachable. It is vital not to overdo it, as smiling too much can be perceived as insincere or fake. However, in the workplace, it is crucial to gauge when and how much to smile as a genuine smile is essential in building workplace relationships. Smiling too much can be perceived as unprofessional and distract from the work at hand. In situations such as a job interview, a genuine smile can help create a positive first impression while over-smiling can come across as insincere and fake.
Smiling in Everyday Life:
Smiling is not reserved for social or work situations. Smiling every day, even alone, can create a more positive mindset, improve mood, and create happiness. Positive affirmations help reinforce positive beliefs and attitudes, incorporating smiling into daily routines. By adopting a positive mindset, the world can be seen through a more optimistic lens, leading to more significant potential for happiness and joy. Examples of positive affirmations include, “I am grateful for the life I have,” “Everything happens for a reason, and all of my experiences contribute to my growth and development,” “I choose to focus on the good in my life and let go of negativity,” and “Today, I choose happiness and positivity.”
Final Thoughts:
A smile is a powerful tool that can positively impact our lives. Not only does it improve our mood, but it also helps us build better relationships and create a more positive environment. By using the simple smile techniques outlined in this article, more positivity can be invited into our lives, creating a happier, more fulfilling existence. Smile more and enjoy life!