Did you know that performing random acts of kindness can actually improve your mental and physical health?
It’s true!
Researchers have found that when people perform kind acts for others, it not only makes them feel good, but it also has a positive effect on their overall health.
But why is this the case?
What Performing Random Acts of Kindness Does For Your Health
According to experts, there are several reasons why being kind can be good for your overall health. For one, kindness releases endorphins in the brain, which have been shown to improve mood and reduce stress.
Additionally, kindness causes the body to release oxytocin, which is known as the “love hormone” because it promotes feelings of happiness and well-being. Oxytocin has also been found to lower blood pressure and promote overall heart health.
Kindness also stimulates the production of serotonin, which plays a key role in several body functions, such as mood, sleep, digestion, nausea, wound healing, bone health, and blood clotting.
Finally, kindness helps to create a sense of community and social support, both of which are important for maintaining (and improving) mental and physical health.
A List of Random Acts of Kindness That You Can Do
Small acts of kindness can not only turn a bad day around for the person that you’re performing the act for, but as we’ve already talked about, they can help you out as well. Here are some random acts of kindness that you can do:
- Hold the door open for someone
- Let someone ahead of you in line
- Pay for the person behind you in Starbucks or other line you’re in
- Write a thank you note
- Help carry groceries for someone
- Give up your seat on the bus or train
- Send flowers to a friend or stranger
- Make a meal for a friend or family member
- Volunteer at a local charity
With Thanksgiving coming up soon, we all acknowledge that it is a time to come together with friends and family and give thanks for all the blessings we have in our lives. It’s also a great time to perform random acts of kindness for others outside of our immediate circle.
This year, why not try something new? Instead of just being kind towards your loved ones, why not do something kind for a stranger as well? It may seem like a small gesture, but it can make a big difference in someone’s day.
So go out and spread some cheer! Perform random acts of kindness, and enjoy watching the positive effect they have on both yourself and those around you.
The world could always use a little more kindness in it.