National Smile Day
National Smile Day is celebrated every year on May 31st. It’s a day dedicated to the simple yet powerful act of smiling- something that has the ability to uplift moods, brighten days, and connect people across cultures.
Maybe it’s the first sip of your morning coffee, a surprise text from an old friend, or a dog excitedly wagging its tail at you. Even science backs this up! Studies show that smiling releases endorphins, those "feel-good" hormones that boost happiness and lower stress. So, whether it’s a genuine grin or a goofy smirk, every smile counts.
Who Started National Smile Day
National Smile Day was founded in 2018 by Dr. Tim Stirneman and Jim Wojdyla, who are associated with Compassionate Dentalcare. They created this day to highlight the importance of a healthy smile and its positive effects on confidence, health, and overall well-being.
Scientific Benefits of Smiling
- Releases Feel-Good Chemicals: When you smile, your brain releases endorphins- natural painkillers that help reduce stress and boost your mood. At the same time, dopamine (the "reward" chemical) and serotonin (the "happiness" hormone) increase, helping to fight anxiety and depression.
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Makes You More Attractive and Approachable: Science shows that people who smile are perceived as more attractive, confident, and trustworthy. This is why smiling plays a huge role in social interactions, from dating to job interviews.
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Lowers Stress and Blood Pressure: Smiling reduces cortisol, the stress hormone, leading to lower blood pressure and heart rate. Studies have found that even during stressful situations, people who smile (even if forced) recover faster than those who don’t.
Celebrate National Smile Day By Being Kind to Yourself and Others
- Smile at strangers. It’s free and could make someone’s day.
- Practice gratitude. Thinking about the good things in life naturally brings a smile.
- Treat yourself to something that makes you smile.
- Post a funny meme, a happy memory, or an uplifting message on social media using the hashtag #NationalSmileDay.
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