World Smile Day
Verb (used without object), smiled, smiling
« to assume a facial expression indicating pleasure, favor, or amusement, but sometimes derision or scorn, characterized by an upturning of the corners of the mouth. »
«form one’s features into a pleased, kind, or amused expression, typically with the corners of the mouth turned up and the front teeth exposed.»
According to Mother Theresa, we shall never know all the good that a simple smile can do and for Charlie Chaplin a day without laughter was a day wasted.
Once the smiling muscles in our face contract, there is a positive feedback loop that now goes back to the brain and reinforces our feeling of joy.
10 more reasons for a smile
Smiling
- reduces stress
- is likeable
- makes people more attractive
- stimulates our brain’s reward mechanisms which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties
- boosts metabolism
- reduces tension and inhibitions
- relaxes and increases well being
- helps to bond with others
- reduces the risk of heart attack
- increases oxygen exchange in the brain and consequently improves concentration.
These children’s smiles are irresistible.