Have you ever been accused of having a “resting bitch face”? I’m sure we’ve all been there. Or even been told, “you should smile more”? Yup, been there.
Well, there might be something there. According to a 2019 study by researchers at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and Texas A&M, who looked 50 years of data testing whether facial expressions had an impact on the emotions that relate to that expression.
So, smiling can make you feel happier. And here are 5 simple & effective ways to smile more from today.
Practice your smile in the mirror
“Practice makes perfect”, as the saying goes. Find a mirror and stare at yourself. Practice various smiles, making sure that the one you pick extends to your eyes.
Remember how it feels – memorise the moment so that you can re-create the smile later on.
Remember a moment that made you happy
I’m sure we’ve all experienced those moments that made us happy. It may be a TV show or movie we recently saw, the last book we read, or even something funny that your pet did! Whatever it is, if you ever find yourself wanting to “turn a frown upside down” (ugh), then think back to that moment.
Use these smile cues as much as you can. They’ll be handy to have in your back pocket!
Stay around positive people
Have you ever heard of the term, “energy vampire”? The kind of person that can suck all the fun and enjoyment out of everything you do. Yep, I’m sure we all know them.
Well, one of the best things you can do is avoid these people as much as you can. Instead, surround yourself with positive people as much as you can. The kind of people who only want the best for you. I’m sure we all have those people in our own lives, even if we don’t realise it.
Sit down and write up a list of people that you think matches that description and reach out to them to hang out!
Find your “happy song”
When I was going through a tough time, one of my go-to things to make me feel happy was listening to my “happy song”. That song that will instantly make you feel better. For me, it was Freelance Whales’ “Generator ^ First Floor”.
Not sure what your go-to happy song is? Well, did you know that Spotify has a huge list of mood-specific playlists? Find the playlist that best matches the mood you want to feel and pop it on. Why not start here?
Keep & regularly write in a smile journal
At the end of every day, make time to sit down and write a journal. Think about and document everything that made you laugh, feel happy, and smile during that day. Maybe it was a stupid joke you heard (“Knock knock? Whose there? Boo Boo-hoo? No need to cry, it’s only a joke” – seriously, the kids in my family LOVE that joke!). A cute dog you saw. Whatever it was, write it down.
Over time, you’ll notice patterns start to evolve. Keep track of them as much as you can.
Want more like this? Why not check out 6 Strong Habits To Help You Lead A Better Life next!