I have the bestest of friends who smiles at the things that annoy her or scare her…

So whilst this may be more of an instruction than an affirmation I’d like to encourage you to smile at the things that challenge you today.

Somebody annoying you on public transport or at work? Smile at them. Being harsh with yourself about something? Smile at yourself. Finding your workout tough, smile at it.

Smiling can help reduce the level of stress-enhancing hormones like cortisol, adrenaline, and dopamine; increase the level of mood-enhancing hormones like endorphin; and reduce overall blood pressure.

I tried out the theory whilst having a new tattoo inked last week…. and you know what? IT WORKS!

and it does’t end there…

While the brain is naturally inclined to think in negative terms as a defence mechanism, the habitual act of smiling helps the mind move to a more positive space and remain there longer the more you do it. According to Shawn Achor, the author of The Happiness Advantage, by making smiling a part of our everyday practice, we help our brains create happiness loops that encourage more positive-thinking patterns.

So whenever you’re in a stressful situation or are feeling down, slap a grin on your face so you can take advantage of the many benefits smiling has to offer.