Why is smiling good for you

Stress affects all of us, whether we like it or not. Luckily, smiling is one easy way to help reduce it. This reaction releases hormones , including serotonin, which helps lower stress levels. Smiling also lowers your heart rate and decreases anxiety levels, both of which are usually increased during times of stress.

These are all things studies have shown to make our bodies more resilient to sickness like the cold and flu. In one study, more than volunteers were given the common cold. Those participants who reported feeling happier, more positive emotions before being exposed to the virus were found to have a reduced risk of developing the sickness.

One study even suggests smiling increases our longevity! When someone looks at you and smiles, do you smile back? This happens because of a reaction called facial mimicry. When you smile at someone, their brain registers the smile and reflects it back to you.

Studies have shown that we do this to recognize and relate to the person, and react effectively. So not only does smiling boost your mood, it can boost the mood of basically anyone around you, starting a positive feedback loop of smiling, feeling happier, and smiling more.

Register for an account, log in, and set up future payments using auto pay. Prefer to speak to us directly? Call Why Smiling Is Good for You. Smiling can lengthen your life One study 6 from Wayne State University suggests those who genuinely smile more often lived five to seven years longer than those who did not. Smiling makes you more likable Want to seem more competent, likable, and friendly? She is currently working on launching her own podcast and loves baby foxes.

Related Articles. What can you do to stay healthy? Access convenient, high-quality care right from the comfort of your own home. The endorphins act as a mild pain reliever, whereas the serotonin is an antidepressant. One study even suggests that smiling can help us recover faster from stress and reduce our heart rate. In fact, it might even be worth your while to fake a smile and see where it gets you.

The reward center of our brain is activated and it makes us feel a little better. Feel-good benefits aside, smiling and happiness can actually affect your job performance. Positive emotions appear to invigorate human beings, while negative emotions have the opposite effect. Want more inspiring health tips delivered right to your inbox? Subscribe to our newsletter. Stay updated with the latest news from our hospitals and clinics.

Reduces Risk of Heart Disease According to the CDC , heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and high blood pressure is one of the key risk factors. Strengthens Relationships A smile goes a long way!

Relieves Anxiety Anxiety and stress can feel similar and sometimes go hand in hand. How Smiling Affects the Brain Smiling has several benefits and it can even improve your health. You can do this while brushing your teeth, while in the shower, or you can write it down in a gratitude journal — whatever works best for you. Spend more time in nature : Spending time outside can enhance your wellbeing, your mood, and your likelihood of smiling. Make it a habit to go on a short walk each day or enjoy your morning coffee outside.

Do one good thing for yourself or others every day : Self-care and helping others is one of the most rewarding ways to put a smile on your face. Put down the crime novel and pick up something a little more light-hearted. Remind yourself to smile : Leave subtle reminders for yourself to smile more. It can be a magnet on your refrigerator, a note on your desk while you work from home, or even an image on your phone background. The Importance of Checking in With Yourself Yes, smiling boasts many benefits, but it's not a cure-all for the problems you may face in life.

A study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Whether you experience frequent acid reflux or suffer from dry mouth, there are many factors that can cause your teeth to appear see-through, particularly along the The American Dental Association has found that mouthwash can reduce or control plaque, gingivitis, bad breath, and tooth There is a renewed interest in becoming the best versions of ourselves, and a big part of that is dedicating our energy to support eight categories of These pesky oral health concerns are a common problem among Americans.

Research has shown that there are more than a dozen types of kisses, with some of them having romantic, friendly, or But a smile can be used to communicate much more than happiness. You might be surprised to learn that there are over a dozen This becomes especially important as you age, since teeth change and become more susceptible to oral conditions such as Is it safe? Is it permanent? However, dry winter air can take a toll on your precious pout. Your diet can affect the color of your teeth dramatically — there are even certain foods Try baking soda.

As we lead busy lives, sometimes our oral care can slip through the cracks. Stains can appear on How Does Teeth Whitening Work? This is normal. Over time, your mouth endures a variety of food, drinks, and substances that can Whether you're an avid coffee and tea drinker or a red wine connoisseur, your teeth will endure wear and tear over the course of your life.

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