The saying “if you look good you feel good”, can also be reversed. Yes, dressing the part can help as well as actually smiling, but did you know that smiling can go a long way for your physical health? When people smile, the brain sends a signal to your mind to fight stress.
Neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin and endorphins also make a difference as well. Endorphins behave like a pain reliever, and serotonin is like an antidepressant.
Smiling plays such a huge part in relieving stress that even fake smiling can get the job done. Yes, even fake smiling can boost your mood and happiness level!
If you are someone who is suffering from depression or anxiety you should still. talk to your physician immediately to find the best treatment for you.
If you’re thinking that smiling isn’t worth it for yourself, perhaps consider the other possibilities it may have for those around you. The feeling smiling provides for you can be passed on to those around you.
On top of it all, when you smile at others, naturally they will want to smile back! Although some studies suggest that smiling ages your face by two years, consistently being in a good mood can help you live a happier and longer life.
RELATED: 5 Surprising Things That Are Aging You Like Crazy
Aging Gracefully
Your perception of aging has a huge effect on the life you live as you grow older. Some studies show that 11-15% of people with a positive outlook on life live to be 85 or older.
Factors like age, gender, income, depression and health had no changing effect on this study. The truth is, we all grow older every day and being at peace with that helps you live significantly longer.
Growing To Be Resilient
The very idea of having the will to live can start far beyond old age. Loving life and having a positive mental state can increase a person’s will to live resulting in looking and feeling good as life goes on.
This same positive outlook can also reduce stress and the likelihood of developing chronic diseases later in life.
Typically, aging gets looked at as bad, while society tends to praise youth and beauty. The truth is, as people grow older they gain more experience, maturity and great insight. By following a simple, healthy lifestyle you can preserve your health and energy throughout life.
RELATED: Face Yoga: 9 Anti-Aging Exercises For Your Face
How To Keep A Smile On Your Face
Managing to smile every day can be easier said than done, but things like meditation, yoga and self-care rituals can do the trick, The majority of these things can be done on your own time as well. A great way to start is to journal! A simple gratitude journal can be a great way to connect with your emotions and relieve stress.
Remaining consistent with your journal can help you develop a whole new way of thinking so you can easily identify and prevent negative thoughts.
Consider calling the things you put in your journal positive affirmations! Starting your day off with positive affirmations gives you a good chance to start the day off in a good mood resulting in smiling!
Journaling accompanied by mediation is the ultimate combination for those looking for consistent happiness. These are all things that you don’t need an expert for and can do at any time!
So the next time you’re feeling down consider writing down positive thoughts, meditation and perhaps surrounding yourself with people who are also striving to live the same happy and peaceful life you are looking for as well! Also, don’t forget consistency is key!