Here’s some news to start your day with a smile.
A new study has found that a smile is as infectious as laughter, and usually passes on to three more people.
The research polling 2,000 Brits found that three quarters of respondents said a smile from someone brightens their day, and 28% enjoy it so much, they said it was better than getting a gift.
The study, commissioned by Belvita, also found that 62% said a simple smile from someone left them feeling more confident, and 36% said it made them want to do something nice for someone else.
Belvita also teamed up with author and campaigner, Katie Piper, to create a portrait series. Each image features a local hero who have bolstered community spirit and made people smile.
Katie, OBE, said: ‘We don’t realise the true impact our smiles have on others – it’s a small gesture that can really change someone’s day.’
These local legends include:
- Oyovwe Agatha Kigho, founder of the Widows Empowerment Trust, which promotes social inclusion for anyone who is bereaved.
- Stefan Simanowitz and Paul Moore, the co-founders of Take One, Leave One, an initiative to help homeless people.
- Sam Pritchard, who started the Cards Fighting Loneliness initiative where people can nominate someone to receive a handwritten card that will bring a smile to their face.
- Jacky Alder, who cooked, shopped and dog-walked for elderly residents in her community throughout the pandemic.
Gabriella Sargeant, from Belvita, said: ‘We believe that positive energy can start with the smallest gesture, such as a smile, or an act of kindness from a stranger – which all help to spread positivity from one person to another.’
The research, conducted via OnePoll, also found that 75% feel their mood is affected by the shorter and colder days of the autumn and winter months, and 61% need a boost of positivity.
A third feel people smile less during the colder months, but 33% agreed a grin goes much further when it is dreary outside.
Katie added: ‘I hope you see the portrait series and are inspired to continue the chain of positivity.’
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