Kindness is Good for us

Every winter, Ram distributes blankets to homeless people shivering on the streets.

Every Friday, George happily feeds 10 people in need, sharing kindness and support in a wonderful way.

Henns happily compliments 1-2 classmates each day, spreading positivity and making everyone feel appreciated.

Chris is always there for his friends when they need help with studying maths.

While driving, Austin happily gives lifts to people heading to the office, making their commute a little easier.

All of the above are wonderful examples of kindness.

What is Kindness?

The American Psychological Association (APA) describes kindness as “benevolent and helpful actions intentionally directed toward others. It’s often motivated by a genuine desire to help, rather than for any explicit reward or to avoid punishment.”

Kindness can take many wonderful forms. When we are kind, we help others, show care, and demonstrate thoughtfulness, empathy, and compassion. A act of kindness might be something small and spontaneous—like buying coffee for the person behind you in line. It could also be helping a friend, family member, or neighbor, or volunteering your time at a community nonprofit

“Only one thing is important which is to behave

throughout your life towards the liars and crooks

around you with kindness, honesty, and justice.”

      Philosopher Marcus Aurelius declares in his Meditations

Evolutionary science tells us that empathy and kindness have deep roots in our history. From the very start, babies are naturally caring and compassionate. For example, toddlers often help adults without

needing to be asked, whether their parents are nearby or not, and they do this even without expecting thanks,” explains "Building Kinder Brains: A 10 billion Neuron Network,” a report from UNESCO. As humans evolved, our little ones needed help to survive, which reshaped our social lives. It built cooperative caring networks and even changed our nervous systems. Now, we’re a species renowned for caring; acts of kindness boost our health and help us live longer. We’re wired to be good to each other. Like all mammals and birds, we’re not born self-sufficient; even in our early years, we rely on others. Because of this fundamental need for care, we’re naturally responsive to kindness at a deep biological level. We depend on each other, and our bodies are aware of that.

Neuroscience shows that when you do a kind act, your body releases endorphins that boost your energy and help ease pain. Plus, the ‘Building Better Brains’ report explains that seeing acts of kindness can increase oxytocin, often called the love hormone.

Perpetually kind people also have 23% less cortisol (the stress hormone) and age more slowly than the average population! It’s wonderful to know that when we witness kindness, we’re often inspired to share it with others, creating a positive ripple effect.

Habit formation

Consistently practicing kindness can rewire the brain to be more compassionate, even in stressful situations. Making a habit of kindness involves intentionally performing small, Daily, and often anonymous acts. Consistency is paramount, as is practicing self-compassion. mindful reflection, and using tools like gratitude journals to make these behaviors stick

Ways to form habit of kindness:

Start with Small, Daily Actions:

• Offer Compliments: Give honest, thoughtful compliments to people daily.

• Show Gratitude: Actively thank people for their time and efforts.

• Perform Random Acts: Leave kind notes, hold doors open, pick up litter, or pay for someone's coffee.

• Practice Active Listening: Truly listen to others without judgment.

• Send Messages: Send a text or email expressing appreciation to a friend or family member.

  
  

Create Systems for Consistency:

• Set Intentions: Before your day begins, decide on a "kindness goal," such as helping one person.

• Use "If-Then" Planning: For example, "If I go to the coffee shop, then I will thank the barista".

Track Your Progress: Keep a "kindness jar" or journal to record acts of kindness you’ve done or witnessed, which provides a visual incentive.

Develop a Kindness Mindset:

• Avoid Gossip: Consciously avoid talking negatively about others when they are not present.

• Assume Good Intentions: Give people the benefit of the doubt.

• Practice Self-Kindness: Take care of your own needs so you are more open and receptive to others.

  
  

Model and Amplify Kindness:

• Be a Role Model: Demonstrate kind behavior in your daily interactions, as this influences others to do the same.

• Talk About Kindness: When helping others, share why you are doing it to encourage others to join in.

• Volunteer: Participate in community service or help neighbors in need.