The Face of Emotion: How Botox Affects Our Moods and Relationships Kindle Edition

What a remarkable concept that moods and depression can be improved by inhibiting facial expressions that may initiate rather then reflect emotions. The author supports this concept historically through the writings of Freud, Darwin, and William James as well as his own research which he refers to as non-cosmetic cosmetic surgery. The idea that a small injection of Botox into a facial furrow to inhibit frowning could change mood would open a whole new world of therapeutic options for people suffering from depression. A new treatment not dependent on the drugs that manipulate neurotransmitters in the brain and the resulting side effects would improve the lives of millions of people. We can only hope that this is just the beginning.

Interesting theory on how Botox, commonly known for its anti-aging affects, can be used to treat depression. I learned a lot about the miracle drug that also helps alleviate migranes, excessive sweating, and people with CP and MS. Finzi delves deep into facial feedback and explains what Darwin and James told us all along - that our facial expressions convey our mood and emotions. He reminds us all to smile, laugh, meditate, and be express happiness to be happy. I say he's onto something BIG here. If he's right, it could revolutionize how depression and mental health is treated.

Eric Finzi writes in clean, crisp prose about the phenomenon of Botox with depth and clarity. Weaving scientific fact and personal history with societal perceptions of beauty and cutting edge philosophy, Finzi writes with considerable authority about the widespread use of Botox, its effect on our culture and our lives. Finzi explores the theory that Botox has the potential to be far more than a cosmetic fix to appease the gods of vanity, but a way of treating depression by breaking the cycle of chronic negative emotions. Highly recommended.

This book was about so much more than Botox! The ideas are thought-provoking. The scientific and historical information was presented in a way that was interesting and didn't feel intimidating. It was well written and engaging. I really enjoyed it!