Smiling is something that we all do on a daily basis, but did you know that there is actually a science behind it? The act of smiling has been shown to have numerous benefits for our mental health, including reducing stress, improving moods, and even boosting our immune system. Let’s take a closer look at the science of smiling and how it can impact our mental health.
When we smile, the muscles in our face send signals to our brain that are interpreted as positive emotions. This, in turn, has been shown to increase levels of serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that helps to regulate mood and is often referred to as the “happy chemical.” Additionally, smiling also decreases levels of the stress hormone cortisol. So not only can smiling help improve your mood, but it can also help reduce stress levels.
In addition to the mood-boosting benefits of smiling, this simple act has also been shown to have a positive impact on our immune system. Dopamine activates the immune system when we smile. This boosts the creation of antibodies and other disease-fighting cells. When we are happy and smiling, our immune system functions more effectively. And laughing, in addition to smiling, actually makes us function even better as a whole.
According to the State Bar of Texas, “In one study, participants were separated into two groups, and both exposed to a virus. The first group was exposed to happiness-inducing stimuli and the second group was not. The results of the experiment showed that the group not exposed the happiness-inducing stimuli experienced higher infection rates than the other, leading some scientists to suggest that happiness can have an impact on one’s immune system.”
In addition to helping our immune system, smiling smiling has also been linked to lower blood pressure and longevity. According to a study published in Social Science and Medicine, “Overall happiness is related to longer lives among U.S. adults. Indeed, compared to very happy people, the risk of death over the follow-up period is 6% higher among individuals who are pretty happy and 14%.”
So, the next time you are feeling down, try smiling. It just might be the boost you need to improve your mood and mental health. At PsyFi TMS, we want to help you on your journey to mental wellness. Contact us today for more information about our TMS therapy services to see how we can help you achieve optimal mental health.
