To see Lorraine Courtney's full article, check out August's Image Magazine
Are dating apps helpful tools when looking to make a genuine connection?
There is no denying that the pursuit of love in the 21st century is littered with digital landmines. Psychologist and psychotherapist Karina Melvin works with many clients who regularly use dating apps and come to her Sandymount clinic seeking help and advice.
"In my experience it absolutely depends on who is using these apps and how they are used. Dating apps open up the possibility to make a genuine connection with someone. The whole point of these apps is to create an opportunity to meet people in person and this is what many users do.
"There are numerous sites, apps and forums on the internet where the aim is to develop and maintain a 'virtual' relationship, but with dating apps the interest is precisely because you can actually meet the people you are talking to."
Smile- it reduces stress!
Recent studies have shown that frowning, grimacing, and other negative facial expressions send a signal to your brain that whatever you are doing is difficult. So your body responds by releasing cortisol, which raises your stress levels.
Stress begets more stress...begets more stress...and in no time, you're super stressed!
INSTEAD- MAKE YOURSELF SMILE. YOU'LL FEEL LESS STRESS EVEN IF NOTHING ELSE ABOUT THE SITUATION CHANGES.
And there's a bonus: When you smile, other people feel less stress, too. Which, of course, will reduce your stress levels. So kill two stresses with one smile.