Have you ever gotten a "feeling" about something you can't quite explain?
Intuition, a hunch, a vibe - whatever you call it, there's a power to trusting your gut.
This is especially true when it comes to your body language.
Recently, I was listening to Malcolm Gladwell's book, "Blink", about the power of snap judgments and quick thinking.
As someone who tends to overanalyze everything, I was curious about how people make decisions without spending too much time going down rabbit holes of options and what-ifs.
But that's not what made me drop everything and record a podcast episode.
Gladwell discusses research showing that intentionally making certain facial expressions can actually trigger the corresponding emotions.
If you use particular facial muscles to frown - your mood goes down.
If you activate the muscles used to scowl - your heart rate increases and you'll feel a bit angry.
On the other hand, even pretending to smile boosts your mood and gives you a quick bump of endorphins so you feel happier.
Science backs this up.
Studies show smiling increases mood-enhancing hormones while decreasing stress hormones. It even lowers blood pressure! Smiling activates muscles that signal your brain to release endorphins, the body's natural pain and stress reliever [Source: Walden University, The Power of Smiling].
And this lines up with how I help women use their bodies to feel less anxious.
What this means for you is that you can make tiny changes in your body position to feel more confident, have more energy, and elevate your mood.
And it’s as simple as smiling on purpose and standing tall.
Because your body holds your emotions, and
Your emotions create your thoughts.
Even better, when you learn how posture and facial expressions influence emotions and vice versa, you have more control over how you feel.
Wouldn’t it be easier to handle anxious days and stressful situations if you knew exactly how to use your body to your advantage?
P.S. Be sure to check out Episode 98 of the More than Anxiety Podcast to hear more about Malcolm Gladwell's book BLINK, and about how you can use your body to feel less anxious and stressed, boost your confidence, and have more fun.
P.P.S. Teens thrive in supportive groups! COMING AUGUST 12 - A coaching group that offers a safe space to share experiences, build confidence, and gain valuable skills to lower stress and anxiety with their peers. Spots are limited - Reply to this email to register your high school student.
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