Did you know that being kind to others can improve your health and well-being?

 

Hearing about, seeing, and doing acts of kindness is linked to producing a hormone called oxytocin. Oxytocin, also know as the ‘love hormone,’ causes the release of a chemical called nitric oxide, which dilates the blood vessels. This reduces blood pressure and protects the heart. When we practice acts of kindness, we also release dopamine and serotonin which are all linked to reducing pain.

 

Here are three simple practices to help strengthen your compassion ‘muscle’ and spread kindness to those around you.

 

Loving-kindness meditation (LKM). Try carving out 15 minutes of your day to mentally send goodwill, kindness and warmth towards others through loving thoughts. One study found that even 10 minutes per day increased feelings of social connection and positivity.

 

Be kind to others. Generosity is contagious. Make a goal of being kind to others and watch the generosity spread. Smile at strangers. Pick up a volunteer gig. Support your coworker who needs some help. Share kind words with your neighbor. Hold the door for someone. Remind someone how much you appreciate them.

 

Practice gratitude. Identify things in your life that you are grateful for. Research shows that the feeling of thankfulness can improve your sleep, confidence, and lessen fatigue and depression. You could start be writing down one thing you’re grateful for each day. There are also apps that help you share happy moments and gratitude. Check them out here: https://www.happierhuman.com/gratitude-app/