It may be the smile you see as someone walks past you in the grocery store. It may be a grin at a child who’s acting cute in the waiting room. Or maybe it’s the moment when your entire face lights up from a story you’ve read.  The fact is, smiles have power. They’re infectious and full of benefits that go beyond face value.

Smiles tend to make people look more attractive and seem more inviting or approachable in any situation. They tend to put people at ease. Plus, it’s much easier to feel comfortable around a smiling person than a person who scowls or frowns.

Smiling can also boost the body’s immune functions, lower blood pressure, and release endorphins which lower stress and make us look and feel younger.

Many studies conclude that smiling can help you live longer and have a more positive outlook and future.

Smiling is something that is readily available and the best part about it? It’s free!

Next time you’re feeling down take a moment to smile. Do it in the shower, in the car, looking in the mirror, anywhere! The benefits are priceless and when you smile, remember, the world smiles with you.

Christina is a freelance writer and mother of three. She blogs about her adventures and misadventures in motherhood at MamaNeena.