You’ve probably heard the saying, “Fake it until you make it.” As a witch and child of the goddess, I say: “Cut out the middleman.” Don’t waste your time and energy faking it; you’re magickal! Just create it!
One of the best times to put this principle into action is when when you’re feeling down. You must admit that the last thing the world needs is yet another cranky or depressed person. One of the chief reasons for your existence is to make the world a better place. How will you manage that if you have no joy for the task?
To quickly turn your mood completely around, there’s no better exercise than to practice smiling 30 times in front of a mirror, whether it’s a full length mirror or a compact. It’s unquestionably silly, but it’s a silliness that pays in spades 
By taking the time to practice smiling in front of a mirror, you are doing several important things that result in the joy you want and need:
- You’re making your intention to be happy known to both your unconscious mind and the Universe, thus causing the law of attraction to work for, rather than against, you.
- By creasing your face in a mock grin, you’re causing your brain to release feel good chemicals into your system.
- You’re relieving stress and anxiety that are partially responsible for how you are feeling.
- In watching your face contort, you’ll probably end up laughing, which will release even more feel good chemicals.
The first time I tried this technique, I wasn’t convinced it would work. In fact, I thought it was ridiculous. However, the results were brilliant. Before I had even finished a set of 30 fake grins, I was genuinely laughing and smiling, and I couldn’t figure out why I had been so glum in the first place!
I live near the sea in the south of England, but I dream of living in the country with sheep and cows for neighbours. I write, blog, craft, and feed my terrible tarot addiction. I love the magical, mystical and spiritual side of life, and believe everyone should let their inner magical sparkle shine!
It only took me 5 tries to feel much better again
What a great tip!
Yeah do this or do what we did in my Positive Psychology class this semester: Place a pencil or pen in your mouth horizontally and leave it there for 30 seconds. This also activates those smiley muscles of yours and you can even try humming a tune to make yourself laugh.
Its weird, but it does work. I was taught to smile while talking on the phone. It comes through in your voice, regardless of how horrid a mood your in.
Ali
I must say, this usually works for me, but I have also done it when it just made me burst into tears… so maybe have your cry first, and THEN try it.