I wanted to share this before…weeks ago, days ago, hours ago…but didn’t get to until now. I know I posted a #WeeklySmile post yesterday but I don’t want to forget to share this so I won’t wait til next week.
Have you ever noticed that when someone smiles at you, you end up smiling back? Have you noticed that when you smile at someone, they smile back? This is true even if the non-smiler is in a bad or sad mood before the smile. They will still smile back. It’s kind of like yawning. When one does it, others follow.
Smiling is good for you and me and everyone else. Scientific studies will show you that smiling releases endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin (called neuropeptides). The release of these neuropeptides can cause a lowered heart rate, lowered blood pressure, and heighten relaxation. Who can’t use that?
Why do we smile back? Scientists are still trying to figure it out. As far back as Charles Darwin in 1871, scientists have been studying smiles. Darwin concluded that it is a by-product of social living and serve the purpose of “telegraphing our feelings and intentions.” Some scientists say that when people face each other, their brains form a neural bridge which synchronizes feelings and emotions. It’s called a mirror neuron. Scientists say it is part of the network of “non-volitional” actions of the brain, meaning you can’t help but smile!
Whatever the reason, smiles have been proven to be contagious! Go on out and test it for yourself! Go smile at strangers, especially if they appear to be sad or grouchy. See what happens!
When Trent started his #WeeklySmile feature, he did so in an attempt to spread smiles and happiness in this world which all too often is “smile-less” and filled with hate and anger, I thought it was a great idea to try to counteract all of that negativity with something positive so I joined up right away! How about you? Do you need to smile more? Do you want to see more smiling and less grumpyness? Want to lower your blood pressure without medications? Join us! Think of something you can share. Something light hearted that might make us smile; something that made YOU smile; something funny. Write it up, post it, tag it #WeeklySmile, and then follow the blue linky box on Trent’s post to link up to the rest of us Smile Spreaders! That’s all there is to it! Come on! Give us a smile!
I’ve read a little about this effect, but not a lot. Thanks for bringing it up! There are benefits to smiling, physical and psychological. Let’s keep spreading those smiles and help keep people healthy!. We can drop them off wherever we go, like your little heart/love stones, but with infinitely many that we can give away.
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So basically, Trent is running a “Smile Clinic!” Who knew! 🙂
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This is interesting 🙂 thank you for posting this.
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I joined too- a smile is the shortest distance between two people is one of my favorite sayings! 😀
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