1. Smiling Lifts Your Spirits

Even if you’re not feeling it…smile. The simple act of smiling, especially when you smile at someone else and they reflect that smile back at you, can trick your body and mind into thinking that you are actually happy.

2. Smiling is a Stress Reliever

When you smile you are physically releasing your jaw muscles, which tend to be tightened in times of stress. The jaw muscles attach to the neck muscles and, when tightened, can lead to headaches. You also look less stressed since you minimize those frown lines on your forehead. “I’ll take smile lines any day,” says House.

3. Smiling Boosts the Immune System

When you smile, your body naturally relaxes. When you are relaxed, your immune system is able to function optimally and can help fight off colds and flu.

4. Smiling Lowers Blood Pressure

When you relax your mind and your face by smiling, you actually lower your blood pressure. House recommends that you sit and enjoy the view, pet your pup, or do something that you enjoy…and smile for 5 minutes and you will notice a difference.

5. Smiling is a Natural Pain Killer

It’s been shown that smiling helps the body to naturally release endorphins and serotonin which work together to help us feel better and minimize the sensation of pain.

6. Smiling Makes You Look Younger

Smiling helps soften the lines and wrinkles on the forehead while adding youth to your eyes. Forget about getting a facelift and smile instead if you want to immediately shed years off your face.

7. Smiling Makes You Appear Confident & Successful

People who look confident and approachable are more likely to be promoted in business. So put on a smile at work – even (or especially) in a stressful meeting – and see how differently others respond to you.

House suggests you share the love. “You really won’t be able to help yourself. Smiling is contagious and the world always looks brighter from behind a smile,” she adds.