Kindness matters and there are some great health benefits that go along with being kind.
Some of these include:
Creating a sense of belonging
Spreading kindness helps build, maintain and strengthen social connections. Helping others creates a sense of belonging by creating new friends and connecting with communities. It also gives a sense of purpose – especially if you are helping someone in need who may feel isolated and lonely.
Helping others feel good
There is nothing better than watching someone’s face light up after you have done something kind for them. Studies have shown acts of kindness are linked to increased feelings of well-being and self-esteem. Some evidence suggests helping others promotes changes in the brain that are linked to happiness.
It helps keeps things in perspective
Being aware of our own acts of kindness and the things we are grateful for can increase feelings of happiness, optimism and satisfaction. It can also help you have a more positive outlook on your own circumstances.
One act of kindness can have a pay-it-forward effect
We can make the world a better, happier place…one act of kindness at a time. It can encourage others to repeat the good deeds and contribute to a more positive community.
The more you do for others, the more you do for yourself
After one act of kindness, the endorphin benefits can last for a long time for both the giver and the recipient.
Source: mentalhealth.org