2020 – there wasn’t much to smile about was there? But a new year brings with it the promise of a fresh start and brighter, happier, times.
There’s no denying that coronavirus made the past year tough. For many people Christmas wasn’t what they’d hoped for and, undoubtedly, there are still difficult times ahead. But hope is on the horizon. Vaccines are being rolled out and the promise of returning to a more familiar sense of normality soon, is firmly on the cards – giving us much to smile about!
But that’s not the only reason why smiling more is a great resolution for 2021. Why start the year with a host of strict, unrealistic goals? Common New Year’s declarations to exercise more, eat less, learn a new skill or quit smoking, usually set you up to fail before you’ve even started. So why not keep it simple this year and make smiling your resolution for 2021? Not only are you likely to stick with it, you’ll reap a host of other benefits too…
Key benefits of smiling
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It makes you feel good
How often do people tell you to smile and cheer up? Annoying isn’t it? Especially if you’re not feeling 100%, are tired or just generally a bit down. But actually, it’s great advice! Science has proven that even the simple act of smiling can have an immediate and positive effect on your mood.
Smiling causes the production of endorphins. These are the same ‘feel good’ chemicals produced by exercise (but smiling requires much less effort!). These endorphins not only lift your mood, they also help to relieve stress, boost your immune system and can even reduce your blood pressure.
What’s more, even if you’re not really feeling it, our brains can’t spot the difference between a fake smile and a real one – so you can fake it ‘til you make it!
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It makes you look good
The best bit about smiling? It makes you look great.
A winning smile is far more appealing than a surly frown. By smiling you immediately make yourself more attractive, appearing both younger and more confident. In fact, studies have found that people who smile more frequently stand a higher chance of getting promoted. So next time you’re in a meeting, try smiling more and see how people react to you.
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It’s contagious
Make upping your smile quota your New Year’s resolution and it won’t just be you who feels the benefit.
Smiling is contagious. If you smile, others smile, and you’ll spread its joy and positive effects. As one of few gestures to carry the same meaning around the globe, armed with a smile you can communicate warmth and happiness to anyone – anywhere in the world!
A simple smile makes you appear approachable and trustworthy, making people more likely to engage with you – and be more friendly and personable in return.
Are you happy with your smile?
Don’t let feeling self-conscious about your smile hold you back. Here at the Harley Street Smile Clinic, smiles are what we do best. With an expert team of leading cosmetic dentistry specialists, we can help your smile to achieve its full potential. So, if there are things you’d like to change or improve about your grin, why not get in touch?
We offer everything from a mini smile makeover to gummy smile treatments – find out more about all our available procedures online now. And don’t forget, we also offer a free smile simulation service, so you can see for yourself just how great your finished results could look.