BLUF
Facial expression alone (smiling) —even without feeling genuinely happy—is enough to create positive changes in your autonomic nervous system.Summary
Clinical Psychologist Sarb Johal says that although fake happiness isn't the real thing, there can be some amazing benefits to it. He says that even without feeling genuine emotion, smiling is enough to create positive changes in your autonomic nervous system. Johal says that while faking happiness doesn't count as real happiness, it can still make us feel better. Facial expression alone—even without genuinely feeling the corresponding emotion—is enough to create noticeable changes in your autonomic nervous system. He says when you force a smile, your body releases all kinds of feel-good chemicals into your system. But Johal also reminds us that while it's sometimes important to put on a brave face, don't hesitate to reach out to family and friends. Also, use the mental health services—if that's what is required to get you to feel genuine happiness.
