Kindness helps you have love and appreciation for others and is defined by “the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate”. We have all heard, “It’s cool to be kind” but did you also know that there are many benefits to being kind?
One great thing about kindness is that there is no right or wrong way to do it – no gesture is too big or too small. Holding the door open for somebody, saying “please” and “thank you”, donating clothes to a shelter, and many more ways are just some examples of being kind.
Think about how you feel after you do something kind: you usually feel this warm, fuzzy feeling.
Well, did you know that kindness improves your brain chemistry? Yes, by simply giving to others, no matter how big or small, can boost dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin levels in your brain. When oxytocin goes up, your blood pressure drops. So, being kind can lower your blood pressure and improve not just your mental health, but your physical health, as well!
Kindness is known as one of the ways that people can create, maintain, and even strengthen their social network. You can do that by volunteering, reaching out to others, and even just catching up with friends. Even if you never see the other person again, it’s a great way to combat any loneliness in the moment. It can even develop into a friendship!
Remember, even if somebody doesn’t appreciate your kindness, don’t let that overtake you. Focus on the act of kindness and giving back. Keep in mind that you don’t have to overdo it.
No matter how you choose to spread kindness, know that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a difference.
Here are some ideas to receive the benefits of kindness:
- Call a friend or family member
- Volunteer at an organization that means something to you
- Donate old clothes to a shelter
- Donate food to a food bank
- Tell somebody they look nice today- maybe that somebody could be you!
- Hold the door open for somebody
- Tell someone you care about how much you love and appreciate them
- Check on someone you know is going through a tough time
- Say hi to a colleague at school or work and ask how they are doing
- Say please and thank you
- Help out around the house
- Praise somebody for something they have done well
- Pick up some litter you see on the street
- Acknowledge and validate others
- Smile
- Treat others or yourself to something small, such as flowers or chocolate
- Speak kindly to yourself
Kindness doesn’t just have to be for others, give yourself some love, too! You are allowed to celebrate yourself and give yourself that kindness you give to so many others. When you hear a judgment in your head, try to catch it and reframe it to something kinder.
Remember that you are more than enough – always have been, always will be.
