How to do it
You need: A mirror.
Sit comfortably in front of a mirror in good light, close enough to see both sides of your face clearly, and let your face rest in a neutral position before you start.
- Without showing your teeth, gently lift both corners of your mouth into a small smile.
- Watch the mirror and let the stronger side come up only as far as the weaker side can match.
- Hold the even smile for a few seconds.
- Slowly relax your mouth back to neutral.
Form cues
- keep the two sides even; move the weaker side only as far as it can match the stronger side; never force
- The movement comes from your mouth corners, not from squinting your eyes or tensing your neck.
- Let your face fully relax between repetitions.
Common mistakes
- Forcing a big smile so the stronger side pulls your face across to one side.
- Helping the smile along with your eyes, forehead, or chin.
- Rushing - each repetition is slow and controlled.
Safety: Stop and message your physio if you develop new facial twitching or tightness, or movements start happening in more than one area at once (for example your eye closing when you smile).