Hey You, SMILE!!

October 15, 2013

Written by Marykate O’Malley. mother of three wonderful children, Gladwyne PA

Yes, YOU! The powerful smile….

Kids smile 400 times a day. Adults? 20

72% of laughter comes from social interaction, the rest a combo of media and joke telling

We begin to smile in the womb

Smiling releases endorphins and reduces stress hormones like adrenalin and cortisol

Studies show that people who smile appear to be more courteous and happy AND competent in the eyes of others

Smiling boosts your immune system, probably because you are more relaxed

It lowers your blood pressure

And smiling wisdom:

Because your never fully dressed without a smile! Orphan Annie

Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened. Dr. Suess

If you are upside down and you frown, it looks like a smile. (my youngest)

The real man smiles in trouble, gathers strength from distress, and grows brave by reflection. Thomas Paine

After every storm the sun will smile; for every problem there is a solution, and the soul’s indefeasible duty is to be of good cheer. William Alger (love this one – love that it is our duty to be of good cheer.)

If you smile when no one else is around, you really mean it. Andy Rooney (love this one too)

A gentle word, a kind look, a good natured smile can work wonders and accomplish miracles. William Hazlitt (powerful smile!)

Always keep you smile. That’s how I explain my long life. Jeanne Calment (my son loves this one)

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. Leo Buscaglia

A warm smile is the universal language of kindness. – William Arthur (so true)

Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy. ― Thich Nhat Hanh

Everytime you smile at someone, it is a beautiful thing