Smiling Behind the Mask

by Katerina Mountanos May 22, 2020 0 Comments

Dear Kosterina Family,

How are you doing? I’m feeling a little burst of positivity this week as things are slowly starting to feel a bit more normal. We have seen a few more friends and family members (from afar) and the local Starbucks in my town re-opened this week (major development). And generally, I’m a little less nervous about going to the pharmacy and the supermarket. But as I've been moving about in public a bit more I've had a lot more interactions with strangers while wearing a mask. And, it's made me think about how we treat each other in this new world.

The masks are hot and annoying but what I dislike most about them is that I can’t smile at people.

Apparently, something as simple as smiling has profound benefits on our own personal well-being, and the health of our communities. According to recent psychological research, smiling triggers hormones in our brain that help us feel happier, less stressed and ultimately, live longer lives. Smiling activates our feel-good neurotransmitters - dopamine, endorphins and serotonin - which triggers our bodies to relax, lift our moods and even decreases our blood pressure. Some research even says that one smile can simulate the same level of pleasure as eating 2,000 bars of chocolate. (Not sure I believe that one).

And when we see another human being smile, it actually is contagious. We literally can't help but smile back at another person when they smile at us. Our brains are actually looking out for us to feel good and live longer.

So we’re going to have to grin a bit extra wide beneath that mask so people know we’re smiling under there. We need smiles so big that they reach our eyes to share happiness with those around us.

Katerina Mountanos

Olive Oil Sommelier, Katerina Mountanos, is the Founder & CEO of Kosterina. Katerina is very passionate about olive oil, the Mediterranean lifestyle and eating for health and longevity.

Also in Learn

How wellness has changed

by Katerina (Katina) Mountanos August 01, 2021 0 Comments

Over the past year and a half my wellness routine has changed for the better. And based on recent market research, my own experience is not unique. It seems that many people have given their exercise, meals, mental health and other well-being practices a massive rehaul as our lives have shifted to be more centered at home.

TIO: Patricia Ladis

by TIO Example July 26, 2021 0 Comments

I’m thrilled today to bring you health and wellness guidance from physical therapist to the stars, Patricia Ladis.

Intermittent Fasting: New trend or ancient practice?

by Katerina (Katina) Mountanos July 25, 2021 0 Comments

At Kosterina, we are deeply interested in the ways that we can reconnect to our ancient superpowers for longevity and long-term health. This week, we're diving into a fascinating topic that has been part of the human practice since hunter-gatherer days and its impact is proven by modern science: Intermittent Fasting.