When you smile, do you ever think about why? A smile does a lot more than tell someone your mood; it embodies happiness. But that’s not all it can do.
After studying the effects of smiling, scientists have come to some not-so-surprising conclusions.
• A big, genuine smile may mean a longer life.
Players in an old baseball almanac with big grins lived 7 years longer than the players who didn’t smile, according to a study conducted at Wayne State University.
• Smiles are contagious.
This is one contagious behavior you won’t mind picking up. Not only do we feel like smiling when we see others with happy expressions, but it’s pretty difficult to frown at someone who is joyful.
• Smiles send subliminal messages.
Want your audience to feel a little goodwill toward your admittedly dull presentation? Sneak in a slide of a smiling face. That’s because people perceive boring material as more interesting when shown a smiling face.
• Even a fake smile can make you happier.
In a bad mood? Make yourself smile. Even though it may not be one of those eye-crinkling, tooth-bearing, blinding grins, it will probably improve your spirits. It may even lead to the real deal!