Introduction
Smiling is not only a way to express happiness but it also helps to create it. Research has shown that smiling can improve our moods, reduce stress, and even boost our immune systems. Therefore, it is important to find ways to smile more often. In this article, we will explore different ways to think about what makes us smile and how to actively seek joy in everyday life.
Personal Anecdotes
One of my favorite memories that always brings a smile to my face is the time when my dog, Max, caught a frisbee mid-air and brought it back to me. It was a beautiful day, and it seemed like time had slowed down for a moment while Max and I played. I also remember when I received a handwritten thank-you note from a student I had tutored, expressing gratitude and appreciation for our work together. Both of these experiences brought me immense joy.
Reflecting on these stories can help us identify what makes us smile. It might be spending time with loved ones, accomplishing something challenging, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature.
Research and Statistics
Studies have shown that smiling can produce positive physiological effects, like lowering blood pressure, reducing stress, and even boosting the immune system (Ekman, 2003). Additionally, smiling can elevate one’s mood (Kraft & Pressman, 2012).
Even just the act of putting a smile on one’s face, regardless of feeling good, can stimulate the feel-good chemicals in the brain, like dopamine and endorphins (Schoeller & Duncan, 2017). This emphasizes the importance of smiling despite circumstances to achieve positivity and happiness in everyday life.
Expert Interviews
I spoke with happiness coach, John Kim, and stress reduction expert, Dr. Kelly McGonigal, to learn more about how they incorporate smiling into their practices.
John Kim shared: “I ask my clients to practice ‘joy therapy.’ This includes writing down things that bring them joy, seeking out people who make them happy, and setting intentions for joy throughout the day.”
Dr. Kelly McGonigal shared: “Smiling, even in difficult circumstances, can help us reframe negative experiences and reduce stress. Additionally, gratitude practices and reflecting on positive experiences can increase happiness and well-being.”
Shared Experiences
I reached out to a few friends and family members to ask them what makes them smile, and here are some of the responses:
- Spending time with loved ones (including pets!)
- Watching a good movie or reading a book
- Trying new hobbies or revisiting old passions
- Traveling to new places or revisiting familiar ones
- Laughing and having a good sense of humor
These shared experiences help us think about our own sources of joy and find ways to incorporate them regularly into our lives.
Creative Writing
Once upon a time, there was a character named Leo, who lost his ability to smile due to a series of unfortunate events. He went to great lengths to find his smile, including seeking advice from friends, writing down things that made him happy, and experimenting with new activities. Eventually, he found his smile while volunteering at a local animal shelter, where he was able to play with puppies and help them find forever homes. Leo realized that joy is sometimes found in unexpected places and that seeking out happiness is an active process.
Photo Essay
Here are some photos of things that make me smile:
This photo captures the joy of spending time outdoors and enjoying nature. It reminds me of the feeling of the sun on my skin and the sound of the waves crashing onto the shore.
This photo represents the joy of experiencing memorable adventures with loved ones. It reminds me of the feeling of accomplishment in reaching the summit and the elation of sharing that with someone else.
This photo captures the beauty of nature and its ability to bring us joy. It reminds me of the feeling of walking through a garden and being surrounded by colors and smells that awaken the senses.
Self-Reflection
Reflecting on what makes me smile, I have realized that spending time with loved ones, being outdoors, and doing creative activities bring me the greatest joy. I plan to incorporate these activities more often into my routine and to seek out new opportunities to smile and experience joy.
Conclusion
Smiling and feeling joy are essential to our well-being. By reflecting on personal experiences, learning from experts, and seeking out shared experiences, we can find ways to actively incorporate joy into our lives.
