A Smile's Power

 

The smile is contagious. In a Swedish study, researchers investigated the part of the brain that controls facial expression - the cingulate cortex.  They asked subjects to respond to images portraying human emotions. Sandwiched among these pictures of anger, sadness and fear appeared images of smiling people.

When a smiliing face appeared, the researchers asked the participants to frown. Despite the request, the participants' immediate response mimicked the smile they viewed.

A smile releases a flood of feel good neuropeptides known as serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins.These molecules play a role in the emotion of happiness. All lead to an increased state of euphoria. In addition to a feeling of happiness, these chemicals lower the heart rate, improve blood pressure and alleviate physical pain.

Look to discover smiles in birds and flowers and other creatures you happen upon.

The smile's power connects individuals with confidence and optimism.

Share a smile and its power today.