Studies reveal that children smile an average of 400 times per day, compared to the average happy adult who smiles 40-50 times per day and the typical adult who smiles only 20 times per day.

But why should we try to smile more? Well, smiling not only offers a mood boost but it also helps our bodies release hormones that provide numerous health benefits. Here are seven great reasons why you should try smiling more often:

Smiling makes you attractive

We are naturally drawn to people who smile. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, 96 percent of Americans believe an attractive smile makes a person more appealing. In addition, nine out of ten Americans believe that a perfect smile is a greatly important asset and that it can improve their quality of life.

Smiling fights off stress

The act of grinning affects a group of muscles within your body that work toward fighting off stress and making you feel happy. Moving muscles in your face release chemicals called endorphins which trigger positive feelings. These lower stress levels and improve your mood. Even if you are not feeling happy, endorphins will trick your body into thinking that you are.

Smiling relieves pain

Laughter causes your body to release its own natural painkillers, next to increasing your pain threshold, creating a higher pain tolerance. So if you’re experiencing pain due to an injury, or illness, watch a comedy or a fun show program, or spend time with friends and family who can cheer you up.

Smiling is great for your heart 

Smiling increases blood flow and helps lower blood pressure, which is great for your heart. Studies reveal that laughter causes an initial increase in heart rate, followed by a period of muscle relaxation and a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure, which reduces your risk of developing heart disease and other cardiovascular problems.

Smiling can boost your immune system

Next to releasing endorphin, laughter also causes the release of serotonin – a chemical which contributes to a person’s happiness and wellbeing. Serotonin has many positive effects on your body and one of them is boosting your immune system.

Smiling makes you look younger

Smiling not only makes us look more appealing, but it can also make us look younger. The muscles we use to smile also lift the face, making a person appear younger. So instead of opting for a facelift, just try smiling your way through the day—you’ll look younger and feel better.

Smiling can increase your life

Not only is smiling making you look younger, but it can also help you live longer! Studies show that happy, cheerful people are 35% more likely to live longer. Smiling lowers the heart rate and reduces blood pressure while relaxing your body, which makes it the best natural remedy for your health!