"A warm smile is the universal language of kindness."-William Arthur Ward

Happy World Smile Day! Today is the perfect opportunity to express gratitude to all the blessings you have so far. Not only that, don't forget to thank your loved ones and make sure that you put a smile on their faces too.

Even if we're still undergoing quarantine, the simple things can make them smile. Buying food for your family or friends, offering to do household chores, surprising them with gifts, offering a listening ear—these small acts can surely make the corners of their mouth turn upwards, resulting in a smile brighter than a neon light.

And when a person smiles in a genuine way, these can improve their health and well-being.

Here are the ways smiling can make you healthy and happy:

1. Smiling can make your brain think you're happy

Can you believe that a fake smile will trick your brain into thinking of happiness?

According to Dr. Murray Grossan, an ENT-otolaryngologist in Los Angeles, the simple act of smiling can help build your immunity. “When you smile, the brain sees the muscle [activity] and assumes that humor is happening.”  (Source: nbcnews.com)

Happiness can boost our body's resistance to stress. Try smiling to yourself in the mirror today, and this might cheer you up.

2. Smiling can lower blood pressure

Are you having a bad day? Feeling grumpy and sad? Watch a humorous video clip and start laughing! Turn that bad mood around. Smiling and laughing can bring down high blood pressure. Letting out a laugh can increase your heart rate and cause muscle relaxation, which can decrease heart rate and blood pressure. (Source: smilelove.me)

So let it out in a hearty laugh!

3. Smiling is a great stress reliever

Trying to get through a stressful task for work? Smile to yourself and believe that you will finish this. It's related to item number 2. A smile to yourself can lower heart rate and blood pressure. Don't sweat over the small stuff, and encourage yourself with a smile.

4. Smiling can improve your immune system

Have you noticed that when you're stressed, the more you are prone to getting sick?

Smiling and laughter can help improve the state of your immune system. According to Mayo Clinic, "Positive thoughts can actually release neuropeptides that help fight stress and potentially more-serious illnesses." (Source: mayoclinic.org)

Do something that can help you relieve stress after a long day. And yes, this includes funny crack videos or stand-up comedy clips.

5. Smiling can help improve relationships

A smile to your loved ones can surely make their day better. It can improve your social bonds.

Take time to do something for them, even if it's not their birthday or anniversary. They will surely appreciate it. Positive emotions can lead to more stable relationships, especially in marriage, and can improve your interpersonal skills.

Face the day with a smile, and feel the benefits slowly changing your life. We hope you can find more reasons to smile about.