If you’re having one of those days when you’re feeling a little low, here’s my antidote for you – SMILE!
You’re going to turn around and ask me, ‘What for? I’m feeling low, my partner’s getting on my nerves, my child has been acting up all day, my dog’s been gnawing at the furniture, my boss just called to cancel my leave and the kitchen sink is blocked – and you’re telling me to smile!’
Hmmm….I do understand that it’s difficult, but experts list out several reasons why smiling can make us feel better and even be healthier. I’m just going to dwell on one – and that is smiling can make you feel happier. Apparently smiling can trick your body in to changing your mood.
I’m no scientist but I’ve found that to be true. So when I’m feeling low I sometimes go to the mirror and make funny faces at myself and then I give myself a great big smile – and immediately I feel better about myself, about the situation that’s getting me down and about life in general. I guess this is what Thich Nhat Hanh, the Vietnamese Buddhist monk and peace activist meant when he said:
Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile,
but sometimes your smile
can be the source of your joy.
Writing about this brought to mind a lovely song that’s been sung by Nat King Cole, Barbara Streisand, Josh Groban, to name a few. But who better than Michael Jackson to sing it for us:
Smile though your heart is aching
Smile even though it’s breaking
When there are clouds in the sky, you’ll get by
If you smile through your fear and sorrow
Smile and maybe tomorrow
You’ll see the sun come shining through for you
Light up your face with gladness
Hide every trace of sadness
Although a tear may be ever so near
That’s the time you must keep on trying
Smile, what’s the use of crying?
You’ll find that life is still worthwhile
If you just smile
Have you smiled today?
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Pic Courtesy: Marilyn Richards
Beautiful words of advice, and what a lovely song!
Very nice! The lyrics of the song were so apt. Thanks,Corinne.Write something on the 'art' of brooding sometime please? I am so used to dwelling on misery that it saps up all the energy in me. I would love to hear your take and tit-bits of advice on it. Luv,Anu
You have been tagged…pls see my blog!
I've not visited your blog in awhile. Boy how I've missed your inspiring thoughts. I really needed this. BEautiful post!