Nat King Cole was really onto something with these lyrics:
Smile though your heart is aching
Smile even though it's breaking
When there are clouds in the sky, you'll get by
If you smile through your fear and sorrow
Smile and maybe tomorrow
You'll see the sun come shining through for you
If you haven’t heard this 1950’s classic - go listen now!
There is wisdom and, as it turns out, science behind those words. A simple smile – even forced or fake – can turn your day around and boost your happiness.
A study conducted by the University of South Australia and published in Experimental Psychology confirms that the act of smiling can trick your mind into being more positive.
Researchers asked study participants to hold a pen between their teeth, which made their facial muscles replicate the motions of a smile. They found that these muscle movements stimulated the amygdala – a major emotion-processing center in the brain – which releases neurotransmitters to encourage a positive state of mind.
While a real smile is always the goal, save this ‘fake it ‘til you make it’ approach for a rainy day. A forced smile could turn into a genuine grin.
Plus – the perks of smiling don’t stop at your own personal happiness. Your cheerfulness can brighten someone else’s day. Spread the joy!
At Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, we want to provide a Blueprint for Happiness, because happiness is part of your health. Happiness leads to healthier behaviors like being active and eating nutritious food. Check out our social media channels and blog on the first Friday of every month for tips on sparking more joy and happiness in your life! 😊