Post Thanksgiving resting face 😊

After a wonderfully relaxing Thanksgiving, I found myself just... existing. You know those moments when you're not actively smiling, not frowning, just deep in thought or perhaps daydreaming? That's when your 'resting face' makes its grand appearance! And honestly, sometimes I wonder if my own resting face gives off the wrong vibe. I’ve definitely had moments where someone asked if I was upset, and I was just trying to remember what I needed from the grocery store! So, what exactly is a resting face? It’s simply the natural, neutral expression your face falls into when you’re not consciously trying to convey an emotion. It’s not about how you feel inside, but rather the default position of your facial muscles, influenced by bone structure, muscle memory, and even genetics. But even though it's neutral, there are distinct types that often project different impressions. Let's dive into some common 'resting face types' I've observed and thought about! 1. The Classic RBF (Resting Bitch Face): Ah, the infamous RBF! This is probably the most talked-about resting face. Characteristics usually include a slightly downturned mouth, a subtle furrow in the brow, or eyes that appear narrowed. People with RBF often look serious, annoyed, or even angry, even when they're perfectly content. I sometimes worry this one has 'GOT ME' on certain days, especially if I haven't had enough coffee! It's truly a struggle when your default expression screams "don't talk to me" when you're actually a sweetheart. 2. The Resting Sad Face: This type might be confused with RBF, but it tends to have a softer, more melancholic look. The corners of the mouth might be neutral or slightly downturned, and the eyes might appear a little droopy or distant. It often gives the impression of someone feeling down or thoughtful, even if their mood is perfectly fine. 3. The Resting Serene/Neutral Face: This is often seen as the ideal. A calm, relaxed expression with a neutral mouth, unfurrowed brow, and soft eyes. People with this resting face often appear peaceful, approachable, and generally in a good mood. Lucky them! 4. The Resting Thoughtful/Concentrating Face: For those of us who are often deep in thought, our resting face might involve a slight squint, a furrowed brow, or a pensive gaze. We're not upset; we're just mentally solving the world's problems (or wondering what's for dinner). This one definitely 'GOT ME' more often than not when I'm working on a puzzle or reading. 5. The Resting Smiling Face: While less common, some individuals naturally have an upward curve to their mouth or eyes that crinkle slightly, making them appear as if they're perpetually on the verge of a smile. They often radiate warmth and approachability without even trying. So, why do we have these different types? Beyond genetics and bone structure, our daily habits play a role. If you frown a lot when you're concentrating or squint in the sun, those muscles might retain some of that tension, affecting your resting expression. If you’re not thrilled with your own resting face, don't worry! Awareness is the first step. You can practice relaxing your facial muscles, checking your expression in the mirror, or even trying gentle facial exercises to encourage a more neutral or uplifted look. But most importantly, remember that your resting face doesn't define who you are. It's just a fleeting expression. What truly matters is the kindness and genuine emotion you convey when you're actively interacting with the world. So, embrace your face, whatever its type, and let your true self shine through!