It sounds like a Pollyanna approach to life. But science backs it: Smiling is good for mental health—whether you feel like it or not. 

The simple act of allowing your cheek muscles to lift your mouth into a curve releases neurotransmitters—the same brain chemicals that antidepressants raise. These neurotransmitters help lower stress and relax the physiological functions of your body while making your immune system more effective. 

So when you feel down or stressed, lift those cheeks into a smile for your health’s sake! 

This health tidbit is taken from the Lifelines section in our latest issue. Read the whole section for free here!

“How Smiling Has an Impact on Your Mental Health,” Thrive Global, thriveglobal.com, Feb. 7, 2020.