‘An outward sign of pleasure, sociability, happiness, amusement or joy’.   –  Although correct, this definition of smiling does not reflect the important role that smiling plays in all our lives:

• • Smiling is an important communication – It helps other people’s perceptions of us, radiating a friendly warmth and telling them far more than we would by using words alone. And just because communication is temporarily more difficult, that doesn’t mean you should stop making the effort. Socialisation and communication are  important to our mental health, so it may be even more important to use non-verbal cues to show others how we feel.  We are attracted to people who smile, whilst negative facial expressions  effectively push us away. Use the attraction power of your smile to draw people in.
  • Smiling is contagious –A smile is something that is easy to pass on. Much like yawning, smiling is contagious and helps to lift spirits. When someone smiles at you, you feel the good vibes from them, which you pass on through a smile to the next person, and so it can go on and on  …….

But what if the smile is hidden behind a mask?  Doesn’t that mean there’s no point in smiling any more? – No! the current need to wear masks doesn’t cancel out the power of a smile –  for although the mouth may be covered, smiling can be seen through your eyes and also transmitted through the tone of your voice. In addition, there are benefits for the person who smiles as well as for the person who sees the smile:

• It is key for our own mental health – Smiling makes us feel good – science has shown that the act of smiling can induce the release of endorphins, which reduces our stress levels and improves our sense of well-being.

• It can help our own physical health – The physical act of smiling can make a difference to our own general health and our immune system, by reducing stress and lowering our heart rates.

What if I don’t really feel like smiling?

• Fake it to make it! – A 2019 meta-analysis of 138 studies, involving 11,000 participants found that even forcing a fake smile can make you happier. Both a genuine and forced smile seem to signal the brain to release endorphins – lowering both stress and heart rate.

So, if you want to feel happier, even if there is no-one to see it, try a smile. And to perhaps double the effect – try smiling at your reflection in the mirror. It really is contageous.