When was the last time you experienced kindness? It could have been a thoughtful word, a smile, an act of generosity, or simply holding the door open for someone or for you. The beauty of kindness is that it feels good whether you are the giver or the receiver, and the gestures don’t have to be grand to be effective.
An example of kindness that immediately comes to mind is the support I received from countless strangers during my 2,500-mile hike from Canada to Mexico along the Continental Divide Trail last summer. My trip was so much richer because of the people who gave me a ride into town to resupply, bought me meals, and even invited me to their homes for a hot shower and a bed. These moments of attention and generosity from strangers are some of the most powerful memories I have of that whole experience. These acts of kindness inspired me to persevere during difficult times and do my part to “pay it forward.”
Kindness is an integral part of humanity. In fact, it emerges as a core tenet of almost every major religion. For example, in Judaism, Leviticus 19:18 says, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” In Buddhism, the Metta prayer is a wish for all beings to be happy, safe, peaceful and free. The Dalai Lama said, “My religion is simple. My religion is kindness.” There are countless examples in every culture that demonstrate the importance of kindness.
Health benefits
Kindness doesn’t just feel good. Research shows that there are a multitude of health benefits for the giver, the receiver and even the observer. Both witnessing and performing acts of kindness produce results oxytocinoften called the ‘love hormone’. Increased oxytocin lowers blood pressure and increases self-esteem.
Being kind to others also increases the production of serotoninthe neurotransmitter responsible for feelings of contentment, well-being and calmness. Furthermore, acts of kindness reduce discomfort through the production of endorphins. As if all that weren’t enough, kindness also reduces stress hormones cortisolthe overproduction of which has been linked to a variety of health problems.
Improved connection with others
Kindness increases empathy, helps us relate to others, and allows us to form more positive relationships. Practicing kindness has the transformative power to turn any situation upside down. For example, if you have failed to achieve a personal goal, kindness can help you forgive yourself and try again. In a professional environment, it allows you to see another person’s perspective and move forward with compassion in challenging circumstances.
Practicing kindness
Kindness is a muscle that gets stronger with practice. I invite you to make it a conscious part of every day. Here are some ideas to get you started: practice loving-kindness meditation, conduct a random act of kindnessmake a donation, smile at a stranger, call a loved one, volunteer your time, buy someone a cup of coffee. Small gestures can have a big impact. Finally, remember that kindness to yourself is just as important as kindness to others.
World Kindness Day is November 13, so it’s a great time to go out of your way to give kindness to others and to yourself. But with all these benefits, why not treat every day as World Kindness Day?
Writer Katie Gerber is a holistic health and nutrition coach who serves clients both locally and online. In 2014, she completed Aviva Romm’s Herbal Medicine for Women certification. After hiking the Pacific Crest Trail in 2014 and the Colorado Trail in 2016, Katie decided to use her knowledge of botanical medicine and nutrition to help fellow wilderness enthusiasts in their quest for more energy and better health. She transitioned from her career as a pastry chef and enrolled at the Institute for Transformational Nutrition. She now uses her lifelong passion for holistic health with her background in culinary arts to help people live healthier lives, in tune with nature. Katie writes for various publications and speaks at local events. When she’s not writing and working with clients, you’ll likely find her in the mountains, in the garden, or in the kitchen testing recipes. Read more about Katie, her articles and her adventures on her website.
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or to sell any product.
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