Smiling not only improves mood but also boosts dopamine levels and reduces cortisol, the stress hormone, highlighting the mental health benefits of incorporating more smiles into daily life.
Smiling, a simple yet powerful act, significantly impacts success, relationships, and happiness. It releases "feel-good" hormones, reduces stress, and boosts health, making individuals appear more approachable and competent. Smiling in photos enhances attractiveness and trustworthiness, while its contagious nature spreads positivity. Practical tips to increase smiling include practicing in front of a mirror and setting reminders. Embracing this effortless habit can improve both personal and professional interactions, creating a ripple effect of positivity.
Actress Sarah Michelle Gellar shared a photo on social media, revealing that she recently underwent dental surgery, specifically a gum graft. Gellar described the surgery as taking her down, comparing it to natural childbirth. Despite the pain, she expressed her joy in being able to smile again and advised others to brush gently. Gellar's post followed another one where she celebrated National Sons Day with a heartfelt message to her son Rocky. She also has a daughter named Charlotte with her husband Freddie Prinze Jr.
A recent study of centenarians from Japan and Sardinia found that harbouring the right viruses in your gut can make a difference in living a long and healthy life. Some of the viruses in the guts of centenarians are attacking and killing off 'bad' bacteria, the type that can cause inflammation and nasty infections of the gut. These particular viruses, known as bacteriophages, are very common and are increasingly being used in medical settings as an alternative to antibiotics. Additionally, some of the viruses in the centenarians' guts are also good at creating the gas hydrogen sulphide, which helps maintain the lining of the gut and has direct, powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The study suggests that faecal samples from centenarians might one day be used to cultivate the beneficial viruses, which would then be given to people who aren't ageing so well, either as a pill or a faecal transplant.