In the United States alone, we spend billions of dollars every year trying desperately to boost our health. The list is endless and when you combine the cost of supplements, routine health visits, dental checkups, gym memberships, and prescriptions, it all adds up very quickly!.

The good news is that there is something that you can do to improve your health that is absolutely free. One of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to boost your health, mood, your success, and longevity is simply to smile.

5 Healthy Reasons To Smile More

1. Feel Good Hormones are Released. When the muscles in your face move into a smile, your brain then interprets that muscle movement and releases chemicals called Endorphins. These are hormones that are often called the “feel good” hormones. They help us feel happier, more motivated and less worried. It’s surprising to know that even when we fake a smile it works as well as a true smile as the brain does not differentiate it only interprets the facial position. The more we stimulate our brain to release these endorphins, the more often we feel happier and relaxed.
2. Lowers Heart Rate and Blood Pressure. Smiling can actually slow the heart and promote relaxation in the body. This lets your heart work without overworking. People who smile and laugh frequently are less likely to develop heart disease and can even temporarily reduce your blood pressure by a measurable amount, both of which are good for your heart health.
3. Strengthens our Immune System. Most of us have heard the phrase “laughter is the best medicine”, and the reality is that is spot on. Our immune system is greatly affected by your overall mind and bodily health. Daily stress can take a toll on the immune system, but smiling frequently has the ability to reduce stress levels and aid our immune system overall.
4. Pain Relief. Relieving pain may be the last thing you associate a smile with but it is true. Studies have shown that smiling and laughter stimulates our body to release its own natural painkillers. So, if you’re in pain and at your wits end due to an injury, chronic disease or illness then try to be with family and friends that make you smile, and laugh or even watch a comedy.
5. Stress Relief. Returning again to the release of endorphins, smiling can be a huge factor in stress relief. Smiling can decrease our heart rate and in turn, help us to feel less stressed and anxious. When that occurs, then we can begin to feel happier and more positive and thus be better able to handle stressful situations.

The Takeaway

Whether you call it a smile, a grin, or beaming, there is no denying the benefits of this happy facial expression. We are born with the ability to smile, but the truth is that smiles do a lot more than simply letting those around you know that you’re happy.

While a smile is known to make you seem more likable, approachable, and trustworthy, the best part is that it can make an improvement in your overall health. Smiling is clearly linked to both health and happiness so why not try to fit more smiles into your day!

If you are interested in learning more about health and wellness, I encourage you to schedule an appointment with one of our trusted practitioners at SHIN Wellness. We offer many holistic treatments such as Decompression Therapy, Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Neurofeedback, Psychology, Reiki, Nutrition, Corrective Exercises, and Massage. If you need some help figuring out what service is right for you, try our personalized consultation. Our Wellness Center and Chiropractor office in Miami Florida specializes in restoring your health!