Kindness for the health of it
Did you know that kindness is scientifically proven to be good for you? You’ve likely felt a wave of good feelings wash over you during a moment of kindness. There is actually a chemical reaction in your brain and body that releases “happiness hormones”.
Kindness increases oxytocin, energy, happiness, lifespan, pleasure, and serotonin. And kindness decreases pain, stress, anxiety, depression, and blood pressure. If you find it hard to believe kindness can do all of these things, you can read more about these benefits at the Random Acts of Kindness.org (RAK) website (https://www.randomactsofkindness.org/the-science-of-kindness) or watch a great video called The Science of Kindness (youtube.com) .
The RAK website also shares that kindness is contagious. This year, Random Acts of Kindness Week is February 11 to 17, and with all these amazing benefits why not make an intentional effort to participate. You might make cookies for a neighbour or shovel their sidewalk.
Maybe you could start a community litter clean up or plug some parking meters about to expire. From leaving snacks for delivery drivers to sharing a positive online review for a local business, the possibilities are endless.
You can check out the RAK website for lots of simple ideas that show kindness for others, ourselves, our community, and our environment.
The website offers resources for kindness at schools, at home, and at work. From lesson plans to kindness calendars and workplace assessments, there is so much helpful support. There is even a self-care bingo! It is important to note that the lesson plans are available in 11 languages as well.
When Random Acts of Kindness Week ends, it’s hoped that you will then “Make Kindness the Norm” by continuing to intentionally spread kindness year-round.
World Kindness Day is November 13, 2024 – the RAK website has resources, videos, a blog, and more to help prepare and celebrate.
Michelle Sauvé is a Health Promotion Facilitator on the Prevention Promotion Team for Addiction and Mental Health and can be contacted at michelle.sauve@ahs.ca