I've never been a smiley person. Whenever someone would ask me why I was always so serious, I'd explain that I didn't believe in forcing emotions. I'd frown when I was upset, smile when I was truly happy, and maintain a neutral expression when none of the above suited the situation. Given that bad news and stress are constantly present in most people's day to day lives, I didn't find myself smiling that much - rarely did I feel what I considered "true" happiness; a state of blissful excitement, or a moment in which everything feels right. It wasn't until I stumbled across a study about the power of smiling that I began reconsidering my reserved displays of emotion.

Multiple studies have proven that smiling, even when you don't feel happy, can improve your mood. A psychological test performed a few years ago found that engaging the facial muscles that are associated with the act of smiling lowers stress response. Another article in Scientific American explains that emotions and body expressions function like a feedback loop - one can influence the other. While it may be obvious that how we feel effects our external movements, it is less apparent that our body positioning and facial expressions would influence our emotions.

Mildly skeptical, I decided to test out the theory. Going about my day, I would smile randomly - in the car, while using the computer, or while doing chores around the house. Initially, I didn't notice much of a difference. I did feel a little ridiculous, and a bit maniacal constantly stretching my mouth into a grin. But after an entire day of intentional smiling, I felt noticeably more at ease. It was as though the sharp corners of life had been softened. Smiling, I've decided, is the equivalent of wearing rose-tinted glasses. The harsh qualities of life don't become any less harsh, but rather, you see them in a more positive light.

So next time you're feeling down, give smiling a try. If it can have an impact on a Serious Sally like myself, it will surely change your day for the better.