Unleashing the Magic of Smiles: Join the Celebration of National Smile Week!

In a world filled with stress and challenges, a simple smile can be a powerful tool to spread joy and positivity. National Smile week reminds of the importance of wearing a smile and it's not just to spread happiness to others. If you've ever had a session with me or been in one of my classes or workshops, you've heard me say "Smile!" I don't say it to get you to bring others joy. I say it because it brings out your inner beauty and more importantly because of the physical and mental health benefits.

There are many ways to cultivate a smile - my top three are . . . just doing it, expressing gratitude, and enjoying music.

Just Do It

Smiling tells the body you are okay. Turn the corners of the mouth upwards and you begin to feel better. Here's the science. When you express a smile, your brain releases small compounds known as neuropeptides. Other neurotransmitters, including dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, are also involved. Endorphins serve as a mild pain reliever, while serotonin functions as an antidepressant.

Simply said smiling reduces stress and anxiety and boosts the immune system. It enhances happiness and boosts your mood. It doesn't even matter if it's a real smile. So when I encourage you to smile during a yoga session, it can have a transformative effect. You smile, you release those feel-good hormones. You reduce your stress, alleviate anxiety, and improve your overall mood. Smiling brings you back into the present moment and out of your head.

Unleashing Gratitude through Smiles

One of the most effective ways to bring a smile to your face is by expressing gratitude. During National Smile Week, reflect on the many blessings in your life. Gratitude is a powerful emotion that shifts our focus from what you lack to what you have, allowing you to appreciate the present moment. When you cultivate a sense of thankfulness, smiles become more genuine and heartfelt, spreading warmth to those around you.

I have a practice of writing down at least 3 things I am grateful for each night. It's a beautiful practice and a sweet way to end the day with a smile. My family has a weekly practice of expressing gratitude for each other during our family night each week. It changes perspectives and fills each of us with joy. Practice gratitude daily, and you will experience a profound positive shift in your life and definitely more smiles!

Music: The Melody of Smiles

The power of music to evoke emotions is undeniable. It has the remarkable ability to uplift our spirits, inspire joy, and connect us on a profound level. I love to dance so music makes me move and smile. Throughout the pandemic, I attended a weekly dance zoom that kept my spirits up and a smile on my face. Listening to music that resonates with your feelings can instantly make you smile, making even the most mundane tasks more enjoyable.

Whether you find a smile through gratitude, music or just doing it, you will inspire others to do the same. Smiles are contagious, creating a beautiful ripple effect that spreads happiness and positivity throughout communities. As you celebrate National Smile Week, remember the profound impact a smile can have on your life and the lives of others. Embrace the magic of smiles, for it is through this simple gesture that you can create a world filled with deep joy, profound gratitude, and an sense of interconnectedness. Spread smiles far and wide, making the world a better place, one grin at a time.

Upcoming Events to make your heart smile!

Therapeutic Yoga

Tuesdays 5:30pm

Thursdays 4:00pm

Saturdays 9:00am (none August 12th special event)

Saturday August 12th

Sound Healing Saturday

9am-10:30am

Gentle Yoga with Aimee

followed by

Soothing Sound Bath with Genevieve

Tea & Treats After

Sign up at https://www.aimeeshantilarue.com/offerings

Space is limited.

Must register to reserve your spot.