Giving someone a smile is an easy way to show kindness, lift their spirits, and brighten their day. In return, did you know that smiling can also have positive benefits on your own wellbeing? It's true! Studies have found that smiling can have numerous positive health effects and can even help you look and feel more vibrant and youthful in addition to spreading happiness to those around you.

Smiling releases “happy hormones,” or endorphins, which can help reduce stress and make us feel more relaxed. Endorphins actually work to restore balance in the body and reduce cortisol levels; cortisol is the hormone that results in feeling overwhelmed, stressed out, or sad. Endorphins also increase serotonin levels, which is the hormone responsible for feelings of wellbeing and good moods.

Smiling doesn’t just reduce stress. It can also strengthen the immune system and help prevent illnesses. Studies have found that those who smile often have higher levels of healthy antibodies such as immunoglobulin A (IgA), which helps protect us from the common cold and other illnesses.

Smiling keeps wrinkles and fine lines away. You may have heard of the term “laugh wrinkles” before—these are the lines and creases you may notice around the mouth and nose due to frequent smiling. And while it’s true that prolonged smiling can cause wrinkles, smiling more often can actually help prevent them from forming in the first place. Smiling helps stimulate the facial muscles, which helps keep them firm and toned.

But perhaps the greatest benefit of smiling is the positive effect it has on your psyche. It’s a natural mood booster that can lift your spirits and make you feel better instantly. Smiling releases endorphins that can help reduce stress, improve focus, and make us more productive. Smiling can also help you make friends, as people are drawn to those with positive energy and outlook.

So, next time you feel down or stressed out, try and give yourself a smile. You’ll be thankful for the positive benefits it has on your own wellbeing.