The Health Benefits of Being Kind
One of my favorite quotes is, “The shortest distance between two people is a smile.” (Victor Borge).
I’m always amazed with how even something as simple as a smile can develop a connection between two people- even if it’s for just a brief interaction.
In a world where success is valued and people are busy, kindness can be an underrated quality. However, there’s growing research that besides making others feel good, being kind, delivers benefits not just to the recipient but also the giver!
Here are a just a few of the physical benefits we experience through our kind actions. It
increases oxytocin for both the receiver and giver. This is the “love hormone” which lowers blood pressure, improves overall heart health, increases self-esteem and optimism!
increases a sense of calm and reduces depression by increasing serotonin, a “feel-good” chemical in our bodies
reduces cortisol (the stress hormone)
Spreading joy with random acts of kindness doesn’t have to cost anything either! Here are some free suggestions:
Share authentic compliments with others
Text a positive message to someone
Donate items that you are no longer using
Smile genuinely at people you interact with throughout your day
Email or text someone a note of gratitude
Smile and hold the door open for someone
Ask for the manager, and compliment the service you’ve received
Set an intention this week to spread a little bit of kindness each day. Similar to many other mindfulness practices, it’s a habit like gratitude, that rewires your brain for happiness.
You can read more suggestions and research in the following articles.
Why Random Acts of Kindness Matter to Your Well-Being
Can Random Acts of Kindness Increase Well-Being? (This one has suggestions for children as well as app suggestions)
Has someone done a kind act for you? Share it here in the comments as inspiration for others!