Why Smiling Matters More Than We Think

After touch, a smile is one of the first languages we learn and one of the last we forget. 

Smiling happens before making sounds and articulating words. A baby’s tiny smile can fill a room with warmth, joy and further smiles in an instant. Something within us naturally recognises smiles; we can even ‘hear’ one over the phone. And at the other end of life, even when memory fades gently, the ability to recognise and respond to a smile often remains. People living with dementia may forget names and stories, yet a warm smile can still reach them, spark a connection and invite a moment of presence. A smile, a simple facial expression, carries a quiet power that shapes our faces and our lives.

When we smile, our body’s chemistry responds cleverly. Endorphins rise, stress hormones quiet themselves slightly and heart rate steadies. Even a tentative smile can signal safety to our nervous system. What begins as a physical movement on our face sends messages deep inside ourselves, changing our inner weather. 

Facial expressions communicate far more than we realise; they are cues about our emotional state, mental wellbeing, mood, physical health, confidence, posture, and even how trustworthy we appear. A smile can melt the ice, lower shields and open doors before even any word is spoken. The ripple effect continues because smiles are contagious, creating connections in the briefest moments. A visual acknowledgement: “I see you”. Across a lifetime, this matters so much more than we think. Smiling strengthens relationships, eases conflict, builds trust and signals openness. For children, it communicates a sense of safety; for the elderly, it affirms belonging. 

And the benefits carry on. Smiles reduce stress, lower blood pressure, improve immune response, reduce pain, help maintain positivity, and, overall, generate greater resilience. People who smile more often report feeling more connected, less isolated and better equipped to face difficulty.

I love the expression “A smile is a curve that can straighten out a lot of problems”. Isn’t that the most empowering gift we carry on our faces, our own tool for transformation (of ourselves and each other)? A smile can be both a gesture and a practice, asking nothing in return, just offering a softening for our everyday life.

This month, I invite you to offer an intentional, felt smile to a stranger, a loved one, or yourself (in the mirror), and to dare to be the change you want to see in your organisation, family, community, and life!

Join a Women’s Circle of Change: Where Your Story Matters

Life is a mosaic—beautiful, messy and ever-changing.

Whether navigating life transitions, seeking community, reflection or wanting to be heard, this safe and nurturing women’s circle is for you.

We connect through authentic storytelling, finding wisdom and inspiration in each other’s experiences. 

Come to a space where you can soften, breathe, express, explore and just be.

Friday 27^th February – Waldron, East Sussex

Click here to book 👉 Your story matters. Step into the Circle.

No experience necessary.

Get in touch: [email protected] – 07947 319 362

by Mathilde Barbier