Smiling to Improve your Mood

You've heard the term, "fake it 'til you make it" before. This can be applied to your mood as well! Faking a smile will trick your brain into improving your mood. If you are having a bad day or are in a bad mood, all you have to do is smile! 

Smiling helps release your endorphins. Your brain releases molecules called neuropeptides, which help relieve stress and anxiety, each time you smile. Your brain does not realize that you are faking your smile so, when you purposely smile, it releases neurotransmitters. These transmitters, such as dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, increase your feelings of happiness.
Every time I force myself to smile- it works! Not only does it work because of the previously mentioned reasons, it works because I feel weird forcing myself to smile, especially if I am by myself or in my car, which makes me laugh. So, the next time you find yourself having a bad day or are in a bad mood, look in the mirror and fake your smile so it makes you happy!