Kathmandu: The famous smiley face was created by commercial artist Harvey Ball, from Worcester, Massachusetts in the year 1963. World Smile Day is celebrated every year on the first Friday of October. This year, it is being observed today, October 6. It was first celebrated in 1999.
How the day started ?
The first Friday of every October is celebrated as World Smile Day. Being marked today, the brainchild behind World Smile Day was an American commercial artist Harvey Ball from Worcester, Massachusetts. The iconic Smiley Face was created by him in 1963. Since then, it has captured the collective bliss of all. It was in 1999 that the first Smile Day was celebrated with zeal and fanfare, with no barriers whatsoever, because a smile is an expression that has no palisades. In 2001, after Harvey passed away, the Harvey Ball World Smile Foundation was established as a tribute to the ‘smiley’ maker .
Events
The day is marked by launching ‘smiley’ balloons which carry messages of joy. A number of competitions and activities, including circuses where jokers perform, and pie-eating contests are also held. The Worcester Historical Society also organises various programmes on this day.
Healthy Living
Smile is the best therapy. When you smile, your body releases chemicals — endorphins and cortisol — that go a long way in helping you stay hale and hearty. Cheerfulness also marks your character, which reflects in your disposition, gestures and body language.
Smile can keep your blood pressure in check and de-stress you. Spiritual leader Sri Chinmoy once said: “Smile, smile, smile at your mind as often as possible. Your smiling will considerably reduce your mind’s tearing tension.”
Leaving you on a philosophical note… “Smile, because it confuses people. Smile, because it’s easier than explaining what is killing you inside.” Remember The Joker (Heath Ledger)? Come to think of it, a smile can hide your wrinkles of woes. So do that more often and who knows, your pain may do a vanishing act!
Relieves Stress
Smiling releases tiny molecules called neuropeptides to help fight off stress. If you face anxiety on a regular basis then you should consider smiling more to reduce stress-induced hormones in the bloodstream.
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