Smile
Last May I got this note from The Grasshopper:
“Icebergs will melt when you smile naturally. What causes you to smile?”
What a spiritual practice smiling is. My friend, Howard talks about a “coat hanger” smile – the one you use for posed pictures. That’s not the smile I refer to.
Asking the question: “What causes you to smile?” is also an exercise in gratitude because whomever or whatever makes you smile gives you a gift that is worthy of a “thank you.”
Just notice how connected you feel the next time you smile. It’s a warm all over feeling that not only benefits you but those in your presence.
I would have to check with someone who knows more about this than I do, but it seems that there is a different energy with smiling than there is with laughter. Both are beneficial and it seems that smiling generates more inner warmth. It’s almost like laughter is yang energy and smiling is yin energy. Again, I’ll bow to someone with more expertise than I have, but it seems to be the case.
Notice when someone smiles how the twinkle comes to their eyes.
I remember having this conversation with my oldest son years ago. He has the most marvelous smile and it opens him every time he displays it. Smiles open everyone to more of life. It seems we see things with less critical consciousness when we smile.
There is more light radiating through us and from us when we smile. Also, notice the tranquility that accompanies a smile. It reminds me of another tidbit I received from The Grasshopper 2 years ago:
“The friendly face of tranquility smiles meekly without purpose.”
The mirthful mindset caused by smiling makes you more approachable and adds to your power of attraction. People are attracted to people who smile. Smiling also adds to your physical and mental well being.
I wouldn’t suggest practicing in the mirror because that will only get you an artificial countenance that has no substance behind it – sort of like a Ferrari with a Yugo engine.
Take a few moments each day and get curious about what makes you smile. It will have an effect similar to aerobic exercise – meaning the after effects continue even after the workout is over.
There is a Taoist tradition called the “Inner Smile” which is quite worthy to know about and practice. Just click on this link and learn this ancient technique used for health, happiness and longevity.
Ask yourself “What makes me smile?” at least once a day and notice how much better a prescription it is than an apple a day.
All the best,
John
http://cdbaby.com/cd/johnmorgan
http://www.cafepress.com/grasshoppernote/3580301
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