The importance of being kind – how it improves our health & well-being
Kindness is a universal human capacity. Often, in my experience, it and its results are deeply underestimated. An act of kindness such as unplanned help to a colleague, supporting a community activity, uplifting someone who is having a tough day, or having a friendly attitude towards oneself, gives a greater chance of a more positive social sphere and increases the possibility of better relationships. Kindness activates the brain’s reward system. This releases pleasure hormones such as oxytocin and serotonin, which improve mood and reduce stress levels.
A study by Sonja Lyubomirsky at the University of California (Lyubomirsky, S., et al. (2005) Pursuing happiness: The architecture of sustainable change. Review of General Psychology) showed that people who deliberately perform small acts of kindness during their week experience increased life satisfaction and reduced depressive symptoms. These effects are amplified when the acts are varied and spontaneous.
Kindness has invaluable positive impacts on our physical health too. A Harvard University study found that kindness can reduce blood pressure, as oxytocin – the famous ‘love hormone’ – helps relax blood vessels and promote cardiovascular health. We all know the feeling in our body when we are in love or filled with love-filled energy. Research from Stanford University (Doty, J. R. (2016). Compassion and Health: Mechanisms of Action and Evidence-based Benefits. Stanford University) shows that acts of kindness can reduce inflammation in the body. This is worth a post in itself, because it is so fundamentally important. But in the big picture, it means that less inflammation can lead to long-term well-being and a reduced risk of chronic diseases, which can mean not only better individual health but fewer costs to society.
Kindness is contagious – because when we act kindly, we inspire others to do the same. Our mirror neurons in the brain reflect what others around us are doing, so if we are surrounded by a friendly environment and basic well-intentioned circle, we are more likely to create a kinder world. A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (Curry, O. S., et al. (2018). Altruism in social networks: Evidence from a public goods game) shows just that; that kindness has the ability to spread as a chain reaction, which in turn contributes to a collective increase in positive behaviours in groups and communities.
Being selfless, altruistic, and consciously kind starts in thought and intention. It is an act for us, our own well-being and that of others. By spreading kindness, we can help create a healthier and more cooperative society, workplaces and social interactions. It’s not something impossible, but often oh so underrated!
I encourage you to start with a small gesture of kindness every day, for yourself, for someone.
It makes a radical difference to your quality of life.
And someone else’s.
For real.
Namasté Åsa
