Bright and Beautiful: The Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry

 

Sometimes, keeping your mouth clean and maintaining fresh breath are not enough to make you feel your very best. Crooked, chipped and missing teeth or issues with overall tooth alignment are all things that can diminish the appeal of your smile and make you feel less than confident when dealing with others. Following are four ways that cosmetic dentistry can have a significant impact on your self-image and on your overall quality of life.

 

Gain Increased Confidence and a Positive, Proactive Mindset

Feeling uncomfortable or embarrassed about your smile can make you less than confident in all life areas. People with damaged or missing teeth are often reticent to engage in intimate conversations with others or to make a broad range of facial expressions. This limits their ability to communicate openly and without reservation. Once your cosmetic issues have been corrected, however, you can smile broadly, lean in confidently and express yourself without fear of what others might think about the state of your mouth. Feeling more confident about yourself will also make you far more positive and proactive in both the professional and social arenas.

 

Make a Better Impression On Others

Not only will you feel better about how you look, but people will respond to you better as well. Your smile is the most noticeable feature that you have and as unfortunate as it may be, people are prone to making snap judgments based upon what they can see. A healthy and complete smile is the best way to show others that you value yourself, your health and your appearance.

 

Balance out Bite Forces and Preserve Your Smile

In addition to making smiles look a whole lot better, cosmetic dentistry also supplies a number of practical, functional benefits. As you may know as you age, your teeth begin to show signs of wear and tear (Source: Guerra Dental).  Replacing a missing or badly damaged tooth will prevent the surrounding teeth from navigating out of their intended positions. This will also balance out bite forces when you chew, so that your healthy teeth will not be subjected to undue wear and tear.

 

Fewer Headaches

If you regularly suffer from headaches, missing or damaged teeth could be the cause. Imbalanced and misaligned bite forces place an incredible amount of stress on the jaws and facial muscles. Corrective, cosmetic procedures will make it easier for you to grind up your food without building up tension in the face that will eventually lead to a throbbing headache.

 

Cosmetic dentistry is not just about looking and feeling good about yourself. These procedures can have a tremendous impact on your ongoing oral health and on your health overall. They can also help you make positive impressions on others when showing off your smile.

 

Categories: bite forces, cosmetic, cosmetic dentistry, Dental, dental care, dental health, missing, missing teeth, nbsp, Smile, teeth, white smile

6 Novel Ways to Instantly Brighten Your Smile

 

By karleia steiner

 

Have you been dreaming of a whiter, brighter smile? Though you have likely heard of practices like whitening at the dentist’s office, there are other ways that you can instantly brighten your smile, too. Here are six ways that you can instantly brighten your smile without professional help:

 

1 – Use Hydrogen Peroxide

One of the most common ingredients in professional whitening products is peroxide. You can use peroxide to whiten your teeth at home, too. One way to do this is to dip the corner of a washcloth in hydrogen peroxide and rub it over the teeth. Make sure to not push too hard or get too close to the gums. The peroxide can be irritating.

 

2 – Use Whitening Strips

Another way to instantly brighten your teeth is to use whitening strips. Many of the over the counter whitening strips will work within one use for whiter, brighter teeth.

 

3 – Coconut Oil

You can also use coconut oil to brighten your smile. Swishing coconut oil in your mouth for 20 minutes each morning will soon bring a brighter smile to your face. This swishing is called “oil pulling” and is a common practice in India and other areas of the world. Coconut oil also has anti-bacterial properties that can help your mouth be healthier.

 

4 – Wear Lipstick with Blue Undertones

If you don’t want to do anything with your teeth themselves, you can present the illusion of whiter, brighter teeth by wearing lipstick with blue undertones. Colors like berry, wine and cherry work well. Keep in mind, matte lipstick can have the opposite effect, so choose glossy.

 

5 – Snack on Certain Fruits

You can also brighten up your smile by eating more fruit. Not only will you be healthier, but the acids in fruit will help to oxidize the stains on your teeth. Apples, pears and strawberries will typically bring instant results when it comes to whitening and brightening. Just make sure to brush after snaking because the same acid that removes stains can also remove enamel.

 

6 – Brush After You Eat

Though it may seem obvious, too many people are only brushing once or twice a day. Though any brushing is good brushing, if you brush following each meal, including snacks, you will see great results. Since this isn’t always possible, you can also do things like chew sugarless gum, rinse with water or swish with mouthwash.

These are only a few things that you can do to have a brighter smile without coming to the dentist. Contact the team at Paramount Dentistry for even more information on instantly brightening your smile.

 

Categories: brighten, novel ways, Smile

Smile: Deciding If You Need Braces

If you avoid the camera because you are not happy with your smile, it’s time you do something about it. Braces could be the solution for you, regardless of age. Whether you are a teen or an adult, braces can correct a host of orthodontic problems. Consider the following reasons your orthodontist might prescribe braces for you.

 

Your Jaw is Not in Proper Alignment

If your jaw is not properly aligned, you could be suffering from a TMJ disorder. A TMJ disorder involves a problem with the temporomandibular joint, the vital hinge that connects the lower portion of the jaw to the upper portion. If this joint is not in alignment, it can cause a great deal of strain on the ligaments and facial muscles surrounding the joint. Inflammation can result as well. Not only can this condition be painful, it can also lead to abnormal wear of your teeth or broken teeth. Your misaligned jaw could lead to periodontal disease and leave you with chronic pain in your jaw, head, neck, and shoulders. Braces could bring your jaw into alignment, correcting your smile and resolving many complications.

 

Overcrowding Could Affect Your Airway

If you have a small amount of space in your mouth, compounded by overcrowding of your teeth, it could cause bigger problems than an unattractive smile. Limited space in your mouth often leads to sleep apnea, a condition in which you actually stop breathing many times during the night as your airway becomes obstructed. You won’t ever have a deep, restorative sleep. You’ll be at a greater risk of having a stroke, high blood pressure, and heart attack, not to mention sleep deprivation will affect your ability to function effectively. A skilled orthodontist, such as Dentistry Plus, an orthodontist in Kitchener, will be able to evaluate problems with limited space in your mouth and devise a treatment plan. Tooth removal and braces could help you to have a clear airway at night.

 

Your Teeth are Getting in the Way of Proper Hygiene

When your teeth are overlapping or misaligned to the point that you cannot clean them properly, this presents a serious problem. You will find yourself prone to tooth decay later in life. Braces will give you a beautiful smile on many levels as your teeth are lined up in a straight row, allowing you to brush and floss thoroughly. Choose braces and keep your teeth for years to come.

Categories: braces, jaw, limited space, nbsp, problems, Smile, teeth, tmj disorder

The Best Kept Secrets About Looking Younger for Longer

When it comes to anti-aging there really are secrets. That’s why some people walk around glowing with youth and a general appearance of wellness and wellbeing, and others seem to age before your very eyes, with tired skin, wrinkles and a general appearance of the advancing years.

 

Fortunately, you can be in on those secrets just by reading these great little snippets of information that we’ve collected from around the world.

 

Firstly, you may try to avoid smiling as you think it’ll give you wrinkles or ‘laughter lines’ – in fact, quite the opposite is true. A recent study was carried out where people of all ages studied thousands of photos and attempted to guess the age of the models, who were pictured with various facial expressions. Those who had neutral expressions were placed quite near to their real age, whilst sad or fearful expressions made subjects look older. Those who were smiling and happy were rated younger than their real age.

 

To look young, it’s also a good idea to look after your hair, as it can be a big giveaway when it comes to your age. As your hair becomes thinner, use some kind of volumising product, to help boost up the thickness of your hair and keep you looking young. You should also opt for lighter colours when covering greys, as darker colours show up thinner hair more severely. Use deep conditioning treatments when you wash your hair, to help fight against problems with dryness, that often come with older age.

 

Take care, too, of your eyebrows. If you have well-groomed and shapely eyebrows, it helps to frame your face, and it draws attention towards your eyes, making you look years younger.

 

Finally, make sure you cleanse and moisturise your skin. This will keep it healthy and gently glowing. Make sure you apply this both in the morning and at night.

Categories: age nbsp, anti aging, expressions, general appearance, hair, nbsp, real age, secrets, skin, Smile, younger

Could Cosmetic Dentistry Help Restore Your Self Confidence?

It may not seem like one of the most pressing health concerns, but when you are struggling with unsightly teeth, it can really have a strong effect on your emotional wellness and wellbeing. Cosmetic dentistry could be the answer to all of your problems.

 

Cosmetic dentistry can deal with minor tooth problems that are related to the way that your teeth look, rather than the health of your teeth. This includes issues such as gaps in the teeth, stains on the teeth and discolouration of the teeth. Many people see it in the same way that they see spending money on expensive clothes, jewellery or beauty products: just another way to look good and gain professional and social success.

 

A recent study has discovered that over 90 percent of the population believe that having a good smile is an important social aspect. In addition, most people believe that having a strong and healthy smile will help to improve their self-confidence and forge important relationships. If they do not have a good smile, they feel awkward about smiling freely and try to avoid it. This can all be overcome with cosmetic dentistry.

 

Teeth whitening or bleaching is one of the most common procedures. Teeth that are discoloured from red wine, smoking or drinking tea and coffee can be restored in just two ten minute sessions, and it can be done at home with no side effects.

 

Dental bonding is also cosmetic dentistry, and this is when fillings match the colour of your teeth. This can be used to fill holes or to re-shape teeth. Porcelain crowns are also used in these scenarios when the tooth underneath is too fractured or damaged for dental bonding.

 

Veneers – also known as laminates – are thin shells of porcelain that go over the front of the teeth and create the illusion of a perfect smile.

Categories: cosmetic, cosmetic dentistry, dental bonding, Dentistry, nbsp, Smile, teeth

Seven Quick Tips to Help You Feel Younger and Fresher

Anti-Ageing wellness isn’t just about the long term; sometimes, a few late nights and early mornings can make you feel 10 years older than you really are. So how do you give your wellbeing a quick boost? We’ve got some top tips from experts and readers to help you bounce back in no time.

1. Eat Red: According to nutritionist Robin Kaye, if you want superfoods to fight that ageing feeling, you can’t go wrong with red foods, like watermelon, berries, and tomatoes. Berries, for example, are antioxidant-rich anti-inflammatories, meaning that they can protect you against age-related mental decline, and help keep your brain healthy. Kaye adds, ‘Tomatoes and watermelon contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant with anti-ageing properties.’

2. Laugh and Smile: Wellness writer Anna Davies notes, ‘Whether you dig SNL skits or prefer watching baby sloths scamper around, dozens of studies prove that laughter reduces stress, which makes you feel light-years younger in the moment — even if you’ll be back to squinting at spreadsheets in a few minutes.’ Moreover, a recent study has found that smiling can make you appear three years younger than you actually are. So say cheese!

3. Lighten up: Donna Perillo, founder of Sweet Lily Natural Spa in New York City, advises, ‘Avoid vamp-y reds or dark purple polish, which can draw attention to any imperfections on your hands. The best way to avoid sunspots, crepe-y skin and other age-related evidence is to exfoliate your hands weekly with a self-made sugar scrub.’ Mix up half-a-cup of granulated sugar, half-a-cup of olive oil, and a few drops of essential oil for a sugar scrub that takes years off your hands.

4. Hit the Town: Research has shown that having strong social ties can lower your blood pressure, reduce your stress and guard against dementia – all of which are important for helping you feel young – so grab your BFF! Seattle resident Cass D., 35, details, ‘Whenever we’re feeling a little too bogged down by everyday life, my best friend and I schedule a girls’ night away from our husbands. Last time, we went to a bar that’s frequented by a lot of students at the local college. We danced, we laughed, and yes, we may have harmlessly flirted with one or two college seniors.’

5. Make Time for Tea: While the health properties of tea may seem too good to be true, Robin Nielsen, a nutritionist in Morgan Hill, CA, asserts that tea lives up to the hype. ‘Hydration is key for looking younger,’ Nielsen explains. ‘And tea is one way to make sure you’re getting enough liquids. Plus, studies have found green tea can help us retain elasticity in our skin as we age.’ Teas have also been shown to bust stress and boost energy – as if you needed an excuse to put the kettle on!

6. Slather on Sun Cream: Davies points out, ‘Not only does slathering up — even on cloudy or cold days — help prevent the wrinkles and sun spots that’ll add extra years over time, but the scent triggers nostalgia, which has a whole host of benefits, including self-esteem enhancement and feeling more socially connected to the people you’re surrounded by, all of which may make you feel the years falling away.’

7. Make Sure Your To Do List is Realistic: Ronald Kotler, MD, Clinical Professor of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and author of 365 Ways to Get a Good Night’s Sleep, warns, ‘The stress hormone cortisol ages the body, inside and out. If your to-do list is a mile long and you’re constantly thinking about it, you’re living the stress response all the time.’

Categories: age related, anti ageing, feel, nbsp, red foods, Smile, Stress, sugar scrub, Sun Cream, time, years, years younger

How to Stop Stress from Damaging Your Beautiful Smile

You don’t have to be a genius to work out that stress is a health concern; stress can cause weight gain, problems with your relationships, and but your wellbeing at risk to a whole host of chronic diseases. However, you may not be aware that stress can also take its toll on your oral wellness, causing gum diseases like bruxism, dry mouth, burning mouth syndrome, and lichen planus.

 

Bruxism: This is the term used for when you grind and clench you teeth. Research in the Journal of Community Dentistry and Epidemiology has linked this condition with work stress, while a personality type study published in the Journal of Behavioural Medicine found that people who are shy, apprehensive and given to worry, are more susceptible to bruxism. This condition can lead to several problems, such as:

 

• Cracked teeth


• Sensitive teeth due to wear and tear


• Headaches on waking


• Aching jaws on waking


• Flattened or chipped teeth

 

To treat bruxism, your dentist may suggest mouth guards or splints, as well as relaxation techniques like meditation.

 

 

Dry mouth: Although stress itself can cause dryness of the mouth, it’s more likely to be caused by the medications you’re taking to treat stress, anxiety or depression. It may not sound like a major problem, but without adequate levels of saliva in your mouth, you can:

 

• Be less able to taste your food


• Have a lower appetite


• Experience increased tooth decay due to the lack of protection


• Have problems wearing dentures because you lack lubrication


• Accumulate more plaque, which increases your gum disease


• Develop tooth wear and sensitivity as a result

 

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS): This painful, frustrating condition often feels like a scalding sensation on your tongue, lips, palate, or throughout the mouth. It occurs more often in middle-aged and older women, but BMS can affect anyone so you’re never off the hook. The burning sensation can last for months or even years, often starting late in the morning and peaking at evening times. You may feel constant pain, or pain that comes and goes, but regardless, this pain can cause many to experience anxiety and depression. Moreover, you may be affected by:

 

• Tingling or numbness on the tip of your tongue or in your mouth


• Bitter or metallic changes in taste


• A dry or sore mouth

 

 

So that’s how stress can affect your oral health, but does that mean your pretty smile is forever lost as soon as you freak out about an interview or start clenching your teeth when your mother-in-law comes for dinner? With a little know-how and care, stress doesn’t have to stop you smiling. First and foremost you need to brush twice a day for at least three minutes, and floss every day. Your dentist or dental hygienist can show you the right techniques if you’re worried you’re not doing it properly. Also, make sure your toothbrush bristles are soft and polish, as this is less irritating to you gum tissues. You should replace your toothbrush every three to four months, as old, worn out bristles can damage your gums.

 

Aside from this, there are lifestyle changes you can make to prevent stress-induced gum damages. Eat a healthy diet devoid of sugary junk and rinse thoroughly after every meal. Cigarettes are cause mouth irritation so don’t smoke, and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. You should aim for a dentist visit every six months, as he or she can remove the hardened plaque and tartar that cannot be removed by brushing or flossing.

Categories: bruxism, burning mouth, dry mouth, Gum Disease, mouth, mouth syndrome, nbsp, nbsp nbsp, Smile, Stress, teeth

How to Give Your Wellbeing a Cheeky Boost

Taking care of your wellbeing is one of the best things you can do in life. By adopting a few simple practises you can prevent a myriad of health concerns, and be around for a very long time. However, Sara Reistad-Long, MA, 2011/2012 Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Fellow in Health and Science Journalism, notes that wellness is not something you can achieve overnight. ‘Getting healthier is a marathon, not a sprint,’ the former Elle Magazine health contributor explains. ‘It’s the result of hundreds of little decisions that we make over the long haul—eating a green salad every day, running three times a week, choosing yoga over wine (most nights, anyway).’

 

Still, everyone wants a few quick and easy tips to boost their physical and mental wellness, so here are a few of the best, scientifically proven ways to help you do exactly that:

 

1. Smile more: A cheeky grin isn’t just a sign that you’re already happy; it can also bring about happiness. According to Harvard psychologist Jeff Brown, author of Chicken Soup for the Soul: Think Positive for Great Health, ‘Smiling can jump-start the process of happiness. When you smile, you trigger a psychological and neurobiological alignment with positive emotions, and that can lead to healthier living.’ This has been backed up by a recent study published in the journal Psychological Science, in which stress was induced in 170 students. The students were asked to perform a dexterity test and then plunge a hand into ice water, which stressed the participants and raised their heart rates. However, when the students were asked to smile during these tasks, their heart rates returned to normal levels more quickly after they recovered from the stress. This was especially the case with students who broke into a “Duchenne smile” (the type of smile that engages the eyes and the mouth).

 

2. Cope with your morning commute better: A study in The Scandinavian Journal of Economics has shown that, if your commute is longer than 22 minutes each way, it may be having a negative effect on your wellbeing. However, that is not to say that you can’t fight back. Andrew Weil, M.D., the author of Spontaneous Happiness, suggests cutting coffee out of your morning routine, as caffeine can worsen stress and increase anxiety. Other than that, British researchers have outlined the top 10 most relaxing songs that you need on your IPod. “Weightless,” by the Manchester band Marconi Union, is first on the list as it slows your resting heart rate by 35%. Other good choices include “Watermark,” by Enya, “Someone Like You,” by Adele, and Mozart’s “Canzonetta sull’aria.”

 

3. Choose retinoids: You may have heard of these powerful vitamin A derivatives as a helping hand against acne and wrinkles, but research suggests that applying retinoids to your skin can help you to reduce your risk of developing actinic keratoses, which are precancerous lesions. Manisha Thakuria, MD, an instructor in dermatology specialising in skin cancer at Harvard Medical School, comments, ‘Retinoids can help inhibit the growth of tumour cells and stimulate normal skin-cell development.’ However, the key is to start slowly, as retinoids can irritate your skin. Whether you use an over-the-counter product or a prescription-strength one, apply your retinoid-based cream twice a week until there is little or no noticeable redness the day after. Then you can work your way up to daily use if your skin can tolerate it. Thakuria adds that “sunscreen is a must” every day, as skin that has been treated with retinoids is especially sensitive to the sun’s harmful rays.

Categories: Commute, health, heart rates, nbsp, Retinoids, skin, Smile

What"s the Price Tag on Your Smile? Ways to Improve Your Teeth

There are plenty of reasons to fear a trip to the dentist. Most of these fears are irrational, but one of them is completely logical. That is the fear of over paying for good dental care. No one likes to spend money to sit in an uncomfortable chair and be prodded by a dentist, especially with the outrageous costs of treatment. However, there are ways to be frugal, even when it comes to medical aid.

 

Cash Discount

Some dentists offer cash discounts. Not everyone has the cash upfront to cover a dental bill, but if you do, you can probably save yourself some money in the long run. Credit card payments take time to fully process, and they can sometimes cause problems for the dental office. Because of this, many dentists appreciate cash payments and sometimes offer rewards for them. You can always talk to your dentist to see if he or she would be willing to practice such a method, if they do not already.

Strategic Appointments

It is possible to separate a major dental appointment into two smaller visits that land on the end of one coverage year and the beginning of another. This way you can avoid exceeding your coverage limit by only adding half of the cost of a major appointment to your current year. Many dentists are willing to work with patients in this way. However, most patients are unaware of this option.

Clinical Studies

Many clinics often ask patients to participate in studies, allowing them to get dental work done for free. If you need to get your wisdom teeth removed, but can’t foot the bill, you might try looking into one of these studies—you could get this procedure done for free! A Salt Lake City wisdom teeth research clinic has been able to offer patients in Utah free wisdom teeth removal—making it possible for them to have this necessary procedure done without breaking the bank.

Revolving Payment Plan

One way to deal with massive dental bills is to break them down into smaller payments that can be dealt with over time. Many dental offices are willing to set up a revolving payment plan that allows patients to pay a portion of the bill every week or month. There are usually no interest fees, and most dentists will be lenient with long time patients.

Preventative Care

The best way to save money on dental care is to avoid it altogether. This does not mean that you should let your teeth rot out of your head. Instead, try to take home dental care more seriously. Brushing twice a day is great, but flossing is the best preventative dental care there is. Most dental problems are related to gum health, so be sure to floss twice a day to keep your gums strong and healthy. This will save you money by preventing gum disease and other health problems.

 

Medical bills are one of the largest expenses nation wide. There is no harm in trying to find new and innovative ways to save money on your dental bill. The best way to do this is to simply talk with your dentist. If they care about their patients, then they will be willing to offer advise on how to best handle your medical bills.

Categories: appointments, care, cash, Dental, dental care, medical bills, money, Patients, revolving payment, save money, Smile, wisdom teeth

Five Easy Steps for Achieving a Picture Perfect Smile

When trying to look one’s best, it is easier to do so when having a nice smile. Sadly, many have a poor smile because they do not take time to keep their teeth clean. With that being said, here are five tips to achieve a picture perfect smile.

 

Teeth whitening

A person with perfect teeth will still develop stains over time. To fix this, a patient should get a Teeth Whitening in Austin as it can bring back the natural color to a patient’s teeth. Now, people fear going to the dentist, but this is different and not uncomfortable. When sitting in the chair, one will see a quick transition to their new white teeth, all while avoiding pain.

Floss

When a person flosses their teeth often, they will remove any huge food particles from between their teeth. This will help a person keep their teeth looking great. Furthermore, when removing old particles, one will not face the embarrassing problem of any leftover food stuck in their teeth. Remember, when flossing twice a day, one can improve their appearance drastically.

 

Retainer or braces

When getting teeth straightened, one can improve their smile considerably. Now, a lot of young people had braces as a kid, but neglect to wear their retainer. This is a mistake as it will help the person keep their teeth in place for decades to come. A person who never had braces can consider getting them as it will leave the teeth in the perfect place. Either way, with a straight smile, one can look their best and impress others.

 

Regular cleanings

With dental cleanings, one can get rid of old stains and get a fresh look. Ideally, a person should visit their dentist every six months as they can clean and polish their teeth. Without a doubt, this also helps a person avoid cavities and other long-term problems associated with the teeth and gums.

 

Diet

To have nice teeth, a person should avoid red wine and other liquids that leave stains. While this may seem like overkill, it is an excellent way to avoid problems in the first place. Another thing a person should avoid is smoking as it will lead to discoloration issues quickly. With a healthy diet and avoidance of certain foods and liquids, one can have a great set of teeth that impress everyone around them.

 

With these five tips, an individual can have a perfect smile and make a lasting impression on others.

Categories: floss, nbsp, perfect, perfect smile, person, picture perfect, Smile, teeth, teeth whitening

Can People Tell if your Smile is Fake and Does it Matter?

Have you ever heard the phrase, ‘smiling is contagious’? It seems that the emotional and mental benefits of sharing a smile can translate from one person to another; if someone smiles and another person sees it, it makes them smile too, and this sense of happiness can boost their sense of wellbeing.

 

New research however, suggests that people do not respond in the same way to all smiles, as they can tell that some smiles are fake and some smiles are genuine. This insight into emotional wellness proves that the value of having a genuine smile may be greater than previously thought.

 

The results of the study seem to show that human behaviour is automatically programmed to be able to recognise and understand the difference between genuine human behaviour and insincere behaviour.

 

The new study has been reported in the renowned journal called Psychological Science. One of the lead professors on the study points out that every interaction between two human beings is different, but that people change their behaviour, attitudes, speech and nonverbal behaviour patterns in order to match the other person.

 

This means, then that certain types of smiles may occur in specific situations, depending on the cues that the other person receives. For example, there may be a scenario where a polite and more formal smile is used, and anyone else in that situation would then reciprocate with this kind of smile.

 

Genuine smiles, however, that occur spontaneously, look entirely different, and are usually visible across the whole face, including the eyes, whereas polite smiles simply involve moving the mouth. A genuine smile spreads across the face, engaging the eye muscles, the cheeks and the lips, and is a far more rewarding experience than a polite smile. It is interesting to note, however, that smile types are usually matched – so a genuine smile will be responded to with a genuine smile and a polite smile with a polite smile.

Categories: Fake, genuine, genuine smile, human behaviour, polite smile, Smile

Smile! July 19th Marks First Ever National Feel Good Day

Get ready to feel good! On Friday the 19^th of July, National Feel Good Day is launching across the UK. So, no matter where you live, it is your civic duty to pay compliments to friends, family and strangers alike – and to celebrate feeling good. Wellness experts are encouraging you to spread the love verbally, in praising posts on your friend’s Facebook walls, or hashtagging it up on Twitter with #feelgoodday and #feelgood, all with the view to make this great country a little more of cheerful and complimentary – I feel better already.

According to new research by Transform Cosmetic Surgery – commissioned in honour of National Feel Good Day – nearly half of us (47.4%) would be bouncing off the walls with happiness if we received a compliment that day, and 44.3% noted that a lovely compliment would lift us out of any mood we were in. If you’re wondering which compliments to dish out on the 19^th, telling people they look younger than they are is the way to go; this would brighten the day of 43.3% of people. Being told your hair looks nice made 36.7% feel good, while others had a big smile on their face due to praise from peers or a cheeky wolf whistle from passers-by.

Steven Taylor, Marketing Director at Transform Cosmetic Surgery, commented on the survey findings, noting, ‘The research has brought to light just how important it is to compliment each other and ultimately spread positive thoughts and feelings. We should spend more time telling our loved ones and peers how great they’re looking and even praising them for great work or simply looking up to smile at a stranger.’

He added, ‘The National Feel Good Day is part of our wider campaign to inspire the nation to feel good about themselves, and celebrate their own achievements, however small. We want to highlight all our findings and continue to produce a nation of confident and complimentary Britons. We are therefore dedicating a whole day to giving and receiving compliments and we hope everyone gets involved and becomes part of our Feel Good Campaign.’

Categories: compliments, feel good, Smile

A Smile a Day: Canada Launches Depression-Fighting Campaign

Through the Canadian Mental Health Association’s Be Well Winnipeg campaign, Kabilan Mohanarajan helps to educate people to take care of their own mental and emotional wellbeing, but also to build a stronger community that promotes wellness for all.

According to Mohanarajan, 23, who is studying to become a teacher at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, ‘The reality is that everyone has mental health. We can commit to being well together.’ As a result of this belief, Mohanarajan, who has an undergraduate degree in psychology, will be spending the next month volunteering as an intern in Winnipeg at the CMHA, helping spearhead the Be Well Winnipeg campaign. The campaign asks you to commit to a few actionable items every week throughout the month of May, such as spending 15 minutes outside every day, taking a friend out for a wellness activity or working to de-clutter a living space to reduce stress.

Mohanarajan beams, ‘So far, I’ve committed to saying good morning to the first person I see every day, to eating more healthy foods and to smiling at least three times a day. Habits definitely make the person, and maybe if you commit one month to smiling every day, or going outside every day, you will continue to do so, and build not only a better life for yourself, but build a better community.’ He adds, ‘I think it helps to discuss mental health, mental wellbeing and mental illness out in the open. Too often things are swept under the rug.’

Nicole Chammartin, executive director of the CMHA Winnipeg, says, ‘We are just so excited to bring this campaign to Winnipeggers, which recognizes the little commitments we can all take to make big improvements in our lives.’ Residents will be able to track their success online, and win prizes based on the commitment they have made. These include gift certificates for Spa treatments and Mountain Equipment, a Xerox printer and autographed Winnipeg Jets gear. Tessa Blaikie, a youth mental health promotion worker, comments, ‘Our real hope is that people will understand that the Canadian Mental Health Association is here for all Winnipeggers. We’re here to help all Winnipeggers live their lives to the fullest.’

A Smile a Day: Canada Launches Depression-Fighting Campaign

Categories: Canada, De-Clutter, Smile