You’ve probably heard it before: ‘It takes 43 muscles (or 50) to smile and 17 to frown.’ While this might be nice to hear (because of the implication that it takes less effort to smile than to frown), it isn’t entirely accurate.
In reality, the number of muscles involved in smiling or frowning varies greatly among individuals. Some even suggest that frowning might actually require fewer muscles than smiling. But you know what? It doesn’t matter how many muscles it takes. Smiling, which may be a simple and small act, is a powerful gesture that has far-reaching effects.
As Dale Carnegie says in his book ‘How to Win Friends and Influence People,’ ‘A smile says, “I like you. You make me happy. I am glad to see you.”’
The science behind smiling
Smiling isn’t just about showing you’re happy. It’s a key that unlocks numerous benefits for your mind and body. Of course, having a set of pearly whites can make you more confident, making it easier to smile. And if you want to have that confidence, you can—teeth whitening procedures are widely available. Just make sure it’s done by a professional, or you might end up like Ross Geller.
Anyway, below are some of the benefits that smiling can give you:
- Boosts mood
When you smile, your brain releases neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. These are the body’s natural feel-good chemicals, acting as mood enhancers. A study from the University of Kansas found that smiling, even when forced, can lead to a decrease in stress and an increase in happiness.
- Reduces stress
Smiling can also help you relax by triggering a reduction in hormones induced by stress. In the same University of Kansas study, participants who smiled during stressful tasks exhibited lower heart rate levels. This means there is a direct physiological benefit to smiling in stressful situations.
- Improves relationships
What does a smile cost? Nothing. What’s more, a smile is contagious. And it’s not just a saying—it’s backed by science. When you smile, people around you often smile back. This situation creates a cycle of positivity. Smiling at each other fosters connection and can make social interactions more enjoyable.
- Enhances immune function
Believe it or not, smiling can also boost your immune system. The relaxation that comes from smiling helps the immune system to react more quickly and effectively to invaders, as noted in various health studies.
- Fosters positive thinking
Smiling can shift your mindset toward a more positive outlook. It’s a small action that can trigger a change in your thought process, steering you away from negative thoughts. And this isn’t just an assumption—numerous psychological studies have shown that smiling can decrease negative emotional processing, making you more inclined to focus on the positive.
- Increases longevity
A 2010 study published in ‘Psychological Science’ found that genuine, intense smiling is associated with longer life. People who often smile genuinely tend to live longer, healthier lives.
Your smile, more than just an expression of joy, is a powerful tool. Not only does it show joy, but it also creates it.
Smiling and social interactions
Connecting and communicating with others is made easier by an engaging, spontaneous smile. These are the benefits of smiling in social interactions:
- Makes a good first impression
Most people often notice a person’s smile first—and with good reason. A warm, genuine smile makes you look more approachable, trustworthy, and friendly. People with an easy smile are often perceived as more likable. If you’re perceived as a positive person, it can set a positive tone for future interactions.
- Enhances communications
Besides happiness, smiling also conveys non-verbal communication. If you find yourself in an awkward situation, try smiling. It’s a pretty handy tool for breaking the ice. Another thing is your words are more impactful if accompanied by a smile. Talking while smiling can make your conversation more engaging and enjoyable for the listener.
- Builds and maintains relationships
Smiling also inspires positive feelings. A smile makes it easier to build new relationships and strengthen existing ones. After all, a smile is a sign of goodwill and empathy, creating a bond of trust and understanding. Smiling is contagious, so try it in a group setting. It’ll help improve everyone’s mood.
The perception of smiling varies across cultures, however. In some cultures, it’s a sign of politeness and friendliness. In others, it might be reserved for more personal interactions. But however it’s perceived in other cultures, everyone can agree that smiling is a bridge that connects you to others.
So next time you meet someone new or catch up with an old friend, remember the power of a simple smile.
Smiling and professional life
Professionally, your smile can be just as important as your résumé. Below are a few benefits of this simple expression in your professional life:
- Enhances professional interactions
A person with a thousand-watt smile will have an easier time networking and building professional relationships. Smiling helps you look more approachable and open to collaboration. For instance, during a networking event, a smile can help turn a forgettable exchange into a warm, engaging conversation.
- Balances authenticity
While it’s true that smiling has a lot of benefits, it’s also crucial to temper it with authenticity and professionalism. Otherwise, you’ll run the risk of coming off as insincere. A sincere and genuine smile that fits the situation is key. It can be a gentle smile in a serious meeting or a broad grin at a company celebration.
- Navigates different work cultures
How smiling is perceived often varies in different workplace cultures. While smiling is encouraged and seen as a sign of friendliness and cooperation in some environments, in others, smiling might be interpreted differently. So learn to read the room and be mindful of your workplace culture. Being mindful can help your smile be more effective.
Your smile is a silent yet influential part of your professional toolkit. It can open doors and encourage connections that go beyond business. So next time you’re heading into a meeting or greeting a colleague, don’t forget to activate those smile muscles. It’s great for everyone involved.
Conclusion
A smile can be a pure, unadulterated expression of joy, but it can be more than that. It improves social interactions and professional relationships. Smiling also benefits your health by boosting your immune system and reducing stress.
A smile can be a tool that shapes your experiences, influences your well-being, and affects those around you positively.
So make smiling a part of your repertoire. After all, it isn’t just a gesture. It can be a source of positivity and good health. And the best part? Smiling takes a lot less effort than frowning. Right? 😁