The Power of a Smile:

Have you ever noticed how good it feels to smile? Whether it’s a genuine smile that lights up your whole face or a small, subtle smile that just lifts the corners of your mouth, there’s something about smiling that can instantly improve your mood.

But smiling isn’t just good for your own well-being – it can also have a positive impact on your relationships with others. Here’s why:

• Smiling is contagious. When you smile at someone, it’s hard for them not to smile back. This can create a positive feedback loop, where both you and the other person feel happier and more connected.
• Smiling can help diffuse tension. If you’re in a tense or stressful situation, a smile can help break the tension and create a more positive atmosphere. Of course, you have to assess the situation and pick appropriate times to smile.
• Smiling can make you more approachable. When you smile, you appear more friendly and open to others. This can make it easier for people to approach you and start a conversation.
• You can hear a smile – try it. While you are talking with someone on the phone – try smiling, they will hear it in your voice. Try it. The next time you are talking with someone on your phone, smile. The other person will hear it.

I remember as I traveled throughout South East Asia a few years ago, I don’t speak any of the languages of the countries I visited. The translator app was my best friend – when it worked. I found I could reach across language and cultural barriers with a smile. Once I smiled, the environment changed and we found ways to communicate, even if it was to agree on a price using the calculator app.

So how can we incorporate more smiling into your life? Here are a few ideas:

• Practice smiling in the mirror. Spend a few minutes each day practicing your smile. Try different variations – a big grin, a small smile, a smile with closed lips – and see which one feels most natural to you.
• Take smiling selfies. You will see what the world sees when you smile.
• Smile at strangers. When you’re out and about, try smiling at the people you pass by. You might be surprised at how many people smile back! I do this all the time – it truly works. I like to think that I brightened a person’s day for just that moment.
• Use smiling as a stress-relief tool. The next time you’re feeling stressed or anxious, take a few deep breaths and try smiling. Even if you don’t feel like it at first, the act of smiling can help calm your nervous system and improve your mood. It works!

Remember, smiling is a simple but powerful tool that can have a big impact on your life. The next time you’re feeling down or stressed, try putting on a smile – you might be surprised at how much it makes a difference!

Send us a picture, on Facebook or tag us on Instagram, of you smiling. It will brighten our day.