May 31, 2022 - National Utah Day | National Smile Day

Welcome to May 31, 2022 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate a miraculous smarm and smile power. The California Gull is an official state bird—but not of California. It seems strange, but this bird that can sometimes be seen as a nuisance to beachgoers is a hero in Utah. Back in 1848, swarms of crickets descended on the crops of new settlers in Utah. Entire farms were at risk of being wiped out—until flocks of migrating seagulls arrived. The birds swooped in and feasted on the crickets until they’d completely eliminated the invading bugs. In appreciation, the state named the California Gull as its official bird. On National Utah Day, celebrate the Beehive State who appreciates all its residents both great and small. Contrary to popular belief, it does not take fewer muscles to smile than to frown. The simple act of smiling can use up to 53 muscles, while frowning takes only 11. But the good news is that all this upward, facial exercise is actually good for your health. Psychologists say that a smile can instantly improve your mood, even if you have to force it. And smiles relax our bodies too, which is good news for our immune systems. Not to mention the ripple effect this causes for those on the receiving side. You never know how a simple smile can change someone’s entire day. On National Smile Day celebrate the exercise that not only benefits you, but also the world around you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices