The Smile That Saved Me: Why Grinning Is My Favorite Superpower

Both of my parents had great smiles, so it’s no wonder I was gifted with a smile that gets noticed. In fact, I was voted “Best Smile” as a senior in high school (a few years ago, ahem!). But a great smile isn’t just genetic. A great smile is authentic and comes from the heart. It is an expression of joy and, believe it or not, it is also a very powerful tool that can aid in overcoming the challenges of life.

There’s Power in Your Smile

“I just like to smile, smiling’s my favorite!” – Buddy the Elf

That line from Elf pops out of my mouth more often than I care to admit. But it’s not just a cute movie quote – it’s a truth I’ve lived. Smiling has pulled me out of some of the darkest emotional corners of my life. It’s like the tail wagging the dog: when I smile, my brain follows. The clouds lift. The light gets in.

And when it’s time for me to put on my radio personality hat for WSRQ in Sarasota or WMCE in Erie, I don’t just turn on the mic – I turn on my smile. Even if I’m having a terrible day, that smile flips a switch. And when my shift ends, the good vibes linger. Why? Let’s talk about the science behind this simple, radiant act.

What Happens When You Smile?

Smiling isn’t just a social cue – it’s a full-body wellness ritual. Here’s what’s going on behind the scenes:

• Muscle magic: When you smile, you activate the zygomatic major (which lifts the corners of your mouth) and, in a genuine grin, the orbicularis oculi (which crinkles your eyes). This combo is known as a Duchenne smile – and your brain loves it.
  
• Neurochemical fireworks: Smiling triggers the release of feel-good neurotransmitters like:
  • Dopamine (pleasure and motivation)
  • Endorphins (natural painkillers)
  • Serotonin (mood stabilizer)
    
• Stress reduction: These chemicals lower cortisol levels, reduce blood pressure, and even boost immune function. Smiling literally makes you healthier.
  
• Emotional feedback loop: Even a fake smile can trick your brain into feeling better. It’s a feedback loop of joy: smile → feel good → smile more → feel even better.
  
• Check out this article for more information. 🙂
  

Songs That Make You Smile (Literally)

As a lifelong music lover and radio host, I’ve noticed something: the word “smile” shows up in some of the most uplifting, soulful, and unforgettable songs ever played on the airwaves. Here are a few smiley vintage pop gems that together make an amazing playlist:

“Smile a Little Smile for Me” (1969) by The Flying Machine
A quintessential sunshine pop hit, this track climbed into the U.S. Top 10 and captured the bittersweet optimism of the late ’60s. Its catchy chorus and gentle encouragement made it a radio darling.

“Make Me Smile” (1970) by Chicago
This was Chicago’s first Top 10 hit and part of a larger suite on their debut album. With its brassy arrangement and shifting time signatures, it showcased the band’s musical complexity while delivering pure joy.

“Keep On Smilin” (1974) by Wet Willie
A soulful Southern rock anthem of resilience, still radiating good vibes today. It became the band’s biggest hit, peaking at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100.

“Sara Smile” (1975) by Hall & Oates
Written for Daryl Hall’s girlfriend, Sara Allen, this smooth, soulful tune marked the duo’s breakthrough into mainstream success. Its intimate lyrics and silky groove helped launch Hall & Oates into pop superstardom.

“Your Smiling Face” (1977) by James Taylor
This upbeat ode to love and connection radiates warmth and sincerity. Taylor’s gentle delivery and joyful lyrics made it a feel-good favorite on adult contemporary radio.

“Can’t Smile Without You” (1978) by Barry Manilow
A sentimental anthem that became a karaoke classic, this song tugged at heartstrings and climbed the Billboard charts. Its earnestness and singable melody made it a staple of late ’70s pop.

“When I See You Smile” (1989) by Bad English
A soaring power ballad that topped the charts and defined late-’80s rock romance. With its dramatic vocals and emotional punch, it became an anthem for love and longing.

These songs don’t just mention smiles – they embody them. Whether it’s the tender vulnerability of “Sara Smile” or the triumphant uplift of “Make Me Smile,” they remind us that a smile speaks volumes. Smile songs aren’t limited to vintage pop music, of course. There are dozens of albums and songs called “Smile” – from Katy Perry to Lyle Lovett, Pearl Jam, the Beach Boys, and (one of my all-time favorites as I used to sing this to my kids) Uncle Kracker, it’s a common theme in music as it appeals to a basic feel-good emotion and humanness in all of us.

Smiling as a Spiritual Practice

For me, smiling isn’t just a reflex – it’s a ritual and a tool. It’s a way of aligning with joy, even when joy feels far away. It’s a choice to tune my frequency to love, to gratitude, to connection. And when I smile into the microphone, I imagine that smile rippling out through the airwaves, touching someone who might need it most.

So the next time you’re feeling low, try this: look in the mirror, lift those cheeks, and let your face light up. Even if it feels silly. Especially if it feels silly. Do it when you’re driving, too, and definitely when you’re around others. Trust me – life will feel better. Because smiling isn’t just your favorite – it might just be your secret weapon.