How to Be Happy: Are You Living on the Smile Side of Life? by Noreen Braman

Mindfulness
a year ago

How to Be Happy: Are You Living on the Smile Side of Life?

A long time ago in a dark faraway teenage place, I was desperate to wring a little joy and happiness out of a dismal life. Being a bibliophile, I figured I could read my way out of my problem. And I actually stumbled on a ridiculous sounding, but ultimately successful, piece of advice: If I could just pretend I was happy, then eventually I really would be.

Years later, I would learn that this advice is often given to people who are depressed, and it is based on the scientific reality that the human brain reacts the same way to feigned happiness as real happiness. It will release the feel-good hormones that eventually lead to stress relief and, believe it or not, real feelings of satisfaction and happiness.

In fact, just the simple act of smiling, whether you feel like it or not, tells your brain to release endorphins – those feel-good hormones. So, when you need a pick-me-up, try smiling – especially at someone else – and you both get some endorphins!

And if you really want to feel better, try laughing for no reason. Start off as a pretend laugh, because your brain doesn't know the difference. Then look someone in the eye, and soon both of you will be laughing for real! Try it!

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Elisa Schmitz
How wonderful is this! Great perspective. Many thanks for sharing it with us, Noreen Braman . Welcome to our community of writers. We’re excited to see what else you’ll share with us!
Noreen Braman
thank you for the warm welcome!
Ann Marie Patitucci
I just love this, Noreen Braman ! Thanks for sharing it with us! And welcome!
Noreen Braman
Thank you! I love the whole concept of this website!
Sheri B Doyle
I love this! One of the reasons I fell in love with my husband was his ability to always make me laugh and smile no matter how bad the situation. It has been a great lesson over the years. Thank you for the reminder Noreen Braman and welcome to 30seconds!
Noreen Braman
What a wonderful story! Remember the words from "The Way We Were?"
"So its the laughter, we will remember, when we remember, the way we were..." Laughter locks memories.
Kaushik Palicha
How wonderful is this!
Pk Slope Kids Dental
Great post! such a great tip, thanks for sharing :)
Jake Roggenkamp
I Love This <3 Thanks for sharing

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