There's always a point in everyone's life (or month, or week, or day, depending on your own cycle of emotions) in which frowning is inevitable. Life hits us with tragedies and difficulties, and so we must be prepared for these moments by having a tool kit of smile-causers, ready to use whenever we are feeling at our worst. Some of these may be considered more traditional ways to find happiness, whereas you may not have considered other options before. Remember, even if you feel the slightest internal smile creeping in when you're feeling sad, you have found the hope you need and will soon be smiling once again.
1. Encounter a domesticated animal (so long as you are not allergic to it), and if appropriate and legal, touch the animal
There is something particularly emotionally satisfying about petting a dog, riding a horse, feeling a cat purr, staring into the eyes of a lizard (I've never actually tried that but...). Knowing that other creatures live much simpler lives but find happiness in their own existence serves as a reminder that all will be OK, and more importantly, that we are never alone in our struggles.
2. Sing
Loudly. In the shower. In the car. In the courtyard. On the way to lunch. In line waiting for lunch. On the toilet. I do not care where you sing, but if you sing and mean it, you will find happiness. There is something about music that touches the soul in a way that monotone words simply do not. Even singing more sorrowful tunes can provide some sort of emotional relief. Play a musical instrument (or attempt to) if you have access to one. This is a very therapeutic option.
3. Find any person and ask them to laugh while frowning
This is certainly one of my favorite methods of smiling, and it is because people often do not consider the possibility of laughing while frowning. It's extremely entertaining and one of the most peculiar things anyone can do. The process is as simple as finding any other human being (preferably someone who enjoys changing their facial expression dramatically), and requesting them to laugh while keeping a serious frown (a curled bottom lip, for example). The awkwardness ensues and you are very likely to be laughing soon. Then you should try it. It's really addicting.
4. Turn to your social media to reflect
Use your technology in a positive way by scrolling through your Instagram and Facebook to reminisce on happy memories (unless, of course, something on either one is a trigger for your stress). For example, one of my favorite ways to smile when I'm feeling blue is watching old Snapchat videos that I've saved to my phone, because each one is 10 seconds of something awkward, embarrassing, hilarious, or otherwise smile-causing.
5. Be kind
Kindness is a release of the essence of our humanity. Kindness in a time of despair is a sign of humility; it is understanding that while you may not want to smile, you are selfless and humble by spreading positive energy despite your own difficulties. To be kind, give of yourself somehow, such as thinking of a nice compliment to say to someone, or even having a pleasant conversation with a friend. The smallest bit of kindness can be life-changing, both for you and for others.
6. Pray or meditate
A smile is not always something that arises in times of laughter, folly and comedy. Sometimes a smile is a soft movement that comes from a feeling of contentment. Turning to the Divine and feeling grounded in the present moment are both ways of reaching a greater contentment. Remember, feeling content does not require feeling as though life is perfect; contentment is a state that comes with acceptance of life and all that it gives.
7. Hug someone
A friend, a co-worker, an acquaintance, a family member, a loved one. Tell someone you need them, tell someone you need support, tell someone you just need a hug. There is someone always willing to offer you the support that you need, and deserve...and remember that one day that person may need you too.
Even in your times of greatest sadness and loss, always recall that there is hope for your next smile...and have faith you will find it.
