MULTAN - As world marks World Smile Day on very first Friday of October, experts shared mental and physical benefits of smile and stated that smile boosts mood and lower stress especially in difficult times. Amid inflation, unemployment, and growing living costs, a simple smile can play a crucial role in reducing tension. Ayesha Saleem, a psychologist and motivational speaker, explained the link between smiling and mental health.
“Smiling has a direct effect on our brain’s reward system,” she said. When people smile, chemicals like dopamine and serotonin are released, improving mood and reducing anxiety. When you smile, others smile back,” Saleem added, highlighting the social impact of a smile.
Social worker Riaz Lodhi also shared some sentiments. “A smile is a universal language. It connects people,” Lodhi stated.
Even during financial hardships, he believes that a smile can lift spirits. “When money is tight, a smile brings hope,” he said, maintaining its importance in tough times. Lodhi further stated smiles develops unity.
“A smile doesn’t solve problems, but it lightens the load,” he said, encouraging more positivity in everyday life. As communities face hardships, small acts of kindness, like smiling, can create solidarity and remind people they’re not alone, he stated. Abdur Rasool, a historian, recalled that the World Smile Day was started in 1999 by Harvey Ball, (American Commercial Artist) creator of the iconic smiley face, who tried to prom.