Jack of all Days

Today is Great American Grump Out Day. We take this opportunity to spend 24 hours NOT being grumpy, crabby, pouty or rude. It was declared an official holiday in Michigan by Gov. Jennifer Granholm last year.

The holiday was launched in 2002 by a group called Smile Mania, which aims to stamp out grumpiness, pessimism and negativity with a series of happiness exercises.

The idea for the Great American Grump Out came from Janice A. Hathy, a graduate of Kent State University with a bachelor of science degree in education. She has developed, produced and conducted workshops and trainings in the areas of stress reduction and human motivation.

Can we all set aside our frowny faces and grumpy behavior for 24 hours? The benefits are worth it, according to Hathy. She says that humor increases energy, develops a positive attitude and self-image, improves communication and relationships, helps deal with difficult situations, liberates and enhances one’s creative capabilities motivates and energizes and gives you the feeling of power.

She adds that laughter strengthens the immune system, releases stress, aids most, if not all, major systems of the body; gives the heart a good workout, helps prevent heart attacks, counteracts fear, anger and depressions; and acts as a panic-blocker.

It takes more muscles to frown than to smile. So put on a happy face.