Wellbeing

The benefits of showing kindness

For some people, the world can sometimes be a difficult or overwhelming place to navigate. Everyone has their own challenges, however there’s one thing which can universally brighten people’s day: kindness. It might seem small, but a simple act of kindness can be so powerful and make a huge difference in someone’s life. In fact, research shows being kind/showing empathy not only benefits the receiver, but it also positively impacts the mental and physical health of the one giving it.

When we are being empathetic and showing kindness, we release a hormone called oxytocin. Oxytocin can improve your mood, reduce stress levels, boost your self-esteem and confidence, and in turn help you create positive relationships with others. The best thing about kindness is it’s contagious! When you do nice things for others, you create a ripple effect which can spread and inspire others to be kind as well. A kinder, more compassionate community sounds pretty great to us!

Kindness is not solely about big gestures. It’s being considerate and making other people feel good, and can be as small as smiling at someone, giving a compliment or holding the door open. Any act of kindness can have a big impact, and sometimes, it’s the difference between a bad day and a good one for someone who is struggling.

Take a moment to think about if you have any mates, friends or colleagues who could benefit from some care and kindness today!

And if you’d like to have a squiz at some books about kindness, check out this link: https://www.readbrightly.com/childrens-books-about-kindness/

Brittany Taylor

Educational & Developmental Psychologist