What makes you smile?

What has made you smile today? For me it's usually the little things, like seeing animals in the wild (rare birds, kangaroos, wombats), my dog with his head out the window whilst I'm driving, a child's laugh. I also like when I've made someone else.

Smiling can lift your mood because of a combination of psychological and physiological mechanisms:

1. Facial Feedback Hypothesis

When you smile, the muscles in your face send signals to your brain that are associated with positive emotions. This feedback can actually influence your emotional state, making you feel happier—even if the smile was intentional rather than spontaneous.

2. Neurochemical Response

Smiling triggers the release of “feel-good” neurotransmitters such as:

• Dopamine – linked to pleasure and reward.

• Serotonin – helps regulate mood.

• Endorphins – natural painkillers that also create a sense of well-being.

3. Stress Reduction

Smiling can lower cortisol (the stress hormone) levels, which helps reduce tension and promotes relaxation.

4. Social Reinforcement

Smiling often leads to positive social interactions. When others respond warmly, it reinforces a sense of connection and belonging, which boosts mood.

5. Mind-Body Connection

Even a “fake” smile can trick your brain into thinking you’re happy, because the physical act of smiling activates similar neural pathways as genuine happiness.