Yes, smiling can lift your face. When you smile, the muscles in your face contract, which can have a lifting effect. This is because the muscles we use to smile also lift the face, creating a more youthful appearance.
For example, the "Cheek Lifter" exercise described in the New York Times article involves smiling with the corners of your mouth to lift the cheek muscles. This exercise helps to tone and lift the cheeks, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and sagging.
Additionally, smiling can release endorphins, which can further boost your mood and create a more relaxed and positive facial expression.