A smile is a facial expression usually, though not exclusively, expressing pleasure, satisfaction, and joy. Even those reluctant to disclose their feelings and reactions may let one slip by unchecked. Share a Smile Day was established to encourage the open revelation of positive reactions to the things that happen and people you encounter throughout your day.



A smile can be used to put someone at ease, cultivate trust and amity in any kind of relationship, whether within the home, office, or social environment, not to mention help release your own or someone else's pent-up negativity and frustration.

There are very few situations in which a smile can be interpreted as inappropriate, therefore use this occasion to share a smile with anyone and everyone you meet as a gesture of your high spirits and affability.

You may even find that the physical action of smiling actually improves your mood and the disposition of those around you, and there is no better justification for the encouragement of the practice.

The best way to celebrate Share a Smile Day is by doing just that: smiling at anything that comes your way and urging others to do the same for the sake of creating a friendlier, more open, and more positive atmosphere wherever you may choose to make your celebration headquarters.

Remember that there are many different kinds of smiles, but for the purposes of this occasion, smirking and sneering are out, whereas beaming and grinning are definitely in.

Besides smiling, you can organize an activity to single out and focus on the things that make you smile, have a contest among your family members or co-workers to see how often or for how long you can make each other smile, or discuss how a smile changes how you react to a person or particular situation.

If you have children or work in a school, dedicate this date to the smile. Talk about the physical aspects of smiling, make crafts that depict smiles, for example, masks, collages made from pictures of smiling people, or wearable art such as friendship bracelets or clothing. Any way you observe this holiday, do it with a smile!

It takes as few as five pairs of facial muscles and as many as all 53 to smile. This number does not include the neck muscles that may be activated, or the different muscles that might be used by an exaggerated expression. Regardless of the precise number of muscles used, smiling causes far fewer muscles to contract and expand than frowning.

Loads of free e-cards are sent each year, and they come in loads of different genres. So if you are looking for a funny, sad or just plain e-card, there is sure to be one for you.