The Inner Smile meditation has its roots in Daoist tradition. It is said it was a secret practice because it’s so powerful…and so simple! Inner smile acts like a homage to this form we have on earth, this beautiful body of ours. It acknowledges the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of our organ systems and infuses these amazing forms with love, light, smiles and gratitude. The day I acquired the habit of consciously pronouncing the words thank you, I felt I had gained possession of a magic wand capable of transforming everything. Omraam Mikhael Aivanhov
As we practice Inner Smile, we become more and more acquainted with and then intimate with our organs and cells. We can then communicate more effectively when we need their help with healing. They know our voice when we call to them to send white blood cells to fend off an infection, for example. I let my organ systems know when I’m about to plunge into an ice cold mountain lake, that all is well, just enjoy, don’t panic. It works! 
The physical aspects of this practice are not separate from the emotional and spiritual aspects. Even if you have to “fake it til you make it”, smiling causes powerful chemical releases in our bodies. For starters, smiling activates the release of neuropeptides that work toward fighting off stress. Neuropeptides are tiny molecules that allow neurons to communicate. They facilitate messaging to the whole body when we are happy, sad, angry, depressed, or excited. The feel-good neurotransmitters—dopamine, endorphins and serotonin—are all released when a smile flashes across your face as well. This not only relaxes your body, but it can also lower your heart rate and blood pressure. Psychology Today
I recorded a 6.5 minute Inner Smile Morning Meditation for you. Please feel free to share. It includes a Thich Nhat Hanh quote and breathing practice as well as smiling to our organ systems. I recommend using this upon awakening, before getting out of bed, but it’s good at any time. Haola, Smile! All is well and getting better.
Deepest Valley Qigong 