Smiling Is the Best Medicine

A warm, genuine smile brings with it the opportunity to communicate with another person, whether we’re greeting a friend or a stranger. When we share a smile, we can express friendliness, kindness, and connection. Our smiles have the potential to make someone’s day better, including our own, as we acknowledge others and let them know they are not alone.

“A warm smile is the universal language of kindness.”

William Arthur Ward

When we smile, we appear more attractive, approachable, and likable and people will be drawn to us, rather than if we frown or scowl. Plus, when we smile, we are helping to boost our mood as well as to help influence others to smile. It is also said that smiling can lower our blood pressure, improve our immune system, relieve stress, and can even make us look younger.

“A smile is an instant facelift and an instant mood lift.” 

Christie Brinkley

With that being said, smiling is sometimes hard to do especially if we’re feeling down or sick. However, if we can make the small effort to smile (even if it’s fake) has the potential to genuinely affect our emotions in a positive way.

“Of all the medicines in the inner life, a smile is by far the best medicine.”

Sri Chinmoy

So, what does this mean and what is going on in our brains when we smile? When we smile, our brains release neuropeptides, as well as ‘happiness’ hormones: endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin, and we feel more relaxed and happier. By exercising our facial muscles a.k.a. smiling, it sends a signal to the brain that everything is okay, the brain responds, and we are rewarded with more good feelings. Sounds like a good reason to keep smiling, doesn’t it?

“A gentle word, a kind look, a good-natured smile can work wonders and accomplish miracles.”

William Hazlitt