Share a Smile and Spread the Joy

Just Smile!

Smiling may not solve all the problems of the universe, but it has a power and influence that is indeniable.  As a teacher, I take this power seriously as I interact with staff and students.  One of my favorite daily routines at school is greeting students in the morning, and always with a smile.  It seems to jump-start a positive outlook not only for myself, but for students as well, especially when a child changes his expression from blank to that bright smile after he trundles from his car or bus in the morning and makes eye contact with me.
One of my favorite memories is a child telling me during class, that she wanted to teach because she believed it had to be the best profession in the world - because I was always smiling doing it.
Some of the other benefits of smiling are:

• Smiling improves our appearance
• Smiling can change your mood - fake it till you make it.
• Smiling is contagious and it draws people to you. (Who wants to spend time with a grumpy person?)
• Smiling reduces stress - take time to put a smile on your face.  In fact, put up reminders to smile when life seems overwhelming.  It can't hurt, and it may help - a lot.
• Smiling relaxes you and improves immune function as well as lowers blood pressure.
• Smiling releases endorphins and serotonin to help you feel good.
• Smiling helps give the impression of youth and energy and can contribute to your success. 

Smiling at YOU!
Coach Leona 

---