It’s no secret that smiling has a number of positive effects on both the mind and the body. In fact, smiling is more effective in stimulating the reward mechanism of the brain than chocolate is, meaning that smiling makes people feel happy. For an example of this, watch children as they naturally go through their day. Generally, kids are happier and more energetic simply because they laugh more during a 24-hour period than adults do. One recent study indicated that children laugh 400 times per day on average, while adults who are considered happy will smile only 40 or 50 times per day. Average adults manage to smile or laugh only about 20 times per da
Other scientific studies have indicated that people can derive the same amount of happiness from smiling than from physical exercise. Those who smile or laugh often will tend to be happier, more energetic, and healthier. On the other end of the spectrum, a grumpy person may have an identity connected with feeling unloved, victimized, or marginalized
Smiling is also connected with having a peaceful existence with others. Putting a genuine smile on your face as you approach an enemy will likely delay any plan to harm you, at least initially. Mother Theresa advocated the connection between smiling and peace as well with her statement: “Peace begins with a smile.” Smiling is conducive to relationship-building because it helps people seem open and interested in connecting with others.
