Smile your way to Good Health

Good Health officials are warning of an infectious epidemic to strike New Zealand on November 22.

 Symptoms are said to be contagious and include an improved immune system, lowered levels of stress, improved moods and heightened levels of endorphins and serotonin. 

 Good Health magazine has declared Monday November 22 as New Zealand's first ever 'Smile at a Stranger Day'.

 On this day, the magazine aims to lift the mood of New Zealanders with a contagious smiling effect.

 In keeping with the concept that small changes can make big differences, New Zealanders are encouraged to share a good old fashioned smile with a stranger.

Good Health editor Shelley Ferguson says a simple smile can not only make you feel great, it can also improve your wellbeing.

"Your grandma always knew that a smile works wonders. Research now shows a smile can make you more attractive, boost your immune system, relieve stress, lower your blood pressure and release endorphins and serotonin to help you stay positive," she says.

Good Health is committed to working towards a society where each and every New Zealander enjoys good mental health and wellbeing, Shelley says. The magazine is supporting the Mental Health Foundation on Smile at a Stranger Day.

Mental Health Foundation CEO Judi Clements says a smile will make you feel good, but the positive effect it can have on someone else can be even better.

"It may seem like a small gesture, but your smile could have improved someone's day tenfold," she says.

"Little differences such as this can make a positive contribution to the mental health and wellbeing of the community."

The Good Health smile ambassadors will be collecting for the Mental Health Foundation on the streets of Auckland city. To make an online donation, visit www.mentalhealth.org.nz.