Have you ever been told to turn a frown upside-down? We know, it’s a little cliché, but it’s also great advice. Smiling might be the last thing you feel like doing when you’re sad or experiencing insecurity, but it can make a big difference.
Here’s how…
Smiling Makes You Happier
When we’re happy, we naturally smile. But did you know that when you smile, it actually makes you happier? Feeling happy on the inside and smiling on the outside is a cyclical process. The brain feels a sense of joy, sending signals to muscles in your face that cause you to smile.
These muscles then send signals back to your brain, which creates even more positive feelings.
The best part, however, is that you can start this process at any time. Even a fake smile can trigger a positive response in your brain, which in turn released dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin, improving your mood and creating legitimate feelings of joy.
Smiling Makes You Appear Younger
The University of Missouri – Kansas City did a study where college students viewed images of older people. Some images showed people smiling while others showed them frowning. According to the students, those who had smiles appeared younger than their age, while those who were frowning were assumed to be older.
It makes sense when you think about it. The effects of aging cause our face to sink downward, as does a frown. Smiling, on the other hand, lifts our face up.
Smiling is Contagious
People unconsciously mimic the actions and facial expressions of the people around them. That means when you see someone smile, you feel a natural desire to smile. And of course, when you start smiling, you then start receiving the positive effects of smiling.
Of course, you don’t have to wait for someone to smile at you. Instead, you can start the positive effect by smiling at the people around you.
Achieving Your Best Smile
People often don’t smile for a number of reasons. For many, it’s because they’re simply insecure about how their smile looks. While no one should be ashamed of their natural smile, there’s nothing wrong with wanting it to look it’s very best.
One of the best ways to improve your smile is with orthodontic treatment.
At Dhingra Orthodontics, we over a range of orthodontic services in Bellefontaine, Springfield, and Beavercreek, Ohio that give you plenty of reasons to smile more. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
