Smiling

Smiling activates muscles that can send signals to the brain that you are happy. The action stimulates the vagal nerve. Even when you simulate (or fake) a smile, it still has a positive effect on your mood!

1 Sit comfortably and take a few breaths.

2 Recall a happy memory or something you find amusing. If you can’t think of a memory, just consciously lift the corners of your mouth into a gentle smile.

3 Focus on the physical sensation of the smile and notice how it affects your facial muscles.

4 Take slow, deep breaths to relax for one to two minutes. With continued practice, these simulated smiles can become more natural.