SMILE

Did you know, “smiling is linked with reduced stress levels, increased health, endorphin levels, and lowered blood pressure”? (Psychology Today) and “smiling provides the same level of brain stimulation as up to 2,000 chocolate bars or 16,000 pounds sterling in cash” (Smile: The Astonishing Powers of a Simple Act (TED Books))? While, I would argue that this is key for every day and month, again as you embrace June I encourage you to intentionally smile. You have made it and you have gotten to a well deserved celebration of a break, so feel your best by allowing yourself to smile. It will make you and the people around you happier. In fact, did you know, “researchers have found that it is difficult to frown when looking at someone who is smiling” (Journal of Nonverbal Behavior)? While you get to smiling, so will the rest of the world!

Below I share with you a simple smiling exercise that I use daily. Every morning I spend two minutes (yes, I time myself actually smile for 60-120 seconds daily).  Often times my husband wonders why I am so happy in the morning.  It is in fact because I have intentionally provided space and permission to just be happy! Now it is your turn!

Smiling Meditation: Set your timer for 60, 90, or 120 seconds. In that time, place a smile on your face. If it feels forced that is fine, just keep smiling. If it helps, consider all of the things you reflected on during your gratitude reflection. Just keep smiling. When time is up, keep the smile for one more cycle of breath. With a smile on your face, inhale through your nose silently thanking the universe for this month of June and exhale through your mouth and smile again, thanking the universe for this time you have you to breathe reflect and smile.

If you would like a recording of the two minute version of my Smiling Mediation, feel free to message me on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

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