neuroscience facts to get you smiling

Part of the reason I really enjoy being a solution focused hypnotherapist is the key element of brain science and revision each session, after the initial consultation session. Clients find they are inspired to find out more about what make their brains work and how they can work with their brain to feel more in control.

I have written out a few key brain science facts to get you thinking a bit about your brain and hopefully put a smile on your face too!

• Duchenne smile ​
• ​​Mirror neurons
• ​Rapport

1. Duchenne smile - this is a genuine expression that involves both your mouth and eyes and helps express a more sincere 'happiness'. It was first described by French neurologist Guillaume Duchenne in 1862. A Duchenne smile is often called a "true" or "genuine" smile because it is associated with positive emotions, such as joy and contentment. When we find more genuine reasons to smile this boosts our brain's production of 'happiness' hormones like serotonin to boost your mood. Definitely something to smile about..
2. Mirror neurons - were discovered by Italian researchers, headed by Giacomo Rizzolatti,  in Parma, Italy in the 1990s.  They are important in helping us understand social behaviour, because they are neurons that fire both when we do something and when we see someone else do it. So it pays to smile at other's when we first meet them as their mirror neurons will 'fire' back what they receive
3. Rapport -  is a key part of relationships and communication. It is a connection or positive relationship between two or more people that is based on understanding, trust, and respect. Rapport is especially important in the field of mental health, as it helps to build a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. I do this by creating a friendly, open and authentically smiley connection with you from the get go whether on the phone, over Zoom or face to face. Using the brain science above it helps me to feel confident, build rapport with you and start off a strong supportive therapeutic alliance or partnership. 

Now you've read this - what makes you authentically smile?

Image by Robina Weermeijer via ​https://unsplash.com/@averey