Wellbeing News

The Importance of Kindness

Acts of kindness are not only beneficial for the person on the receiving end and those who witness the kind action, but also for the givers of kindness. When we are kind and intentionally perform acts of kindness, we get a boost in our own wellbeing and happiness. It feels good to help others and it helps us focus on the positive things in our lives. 

It’s a win-win! 

Kindness and the brain

Physiologically, kindness can positively change your brain. Being kind boosts serotonin and dopamine, which are neurotransmitters in the brain that give you feelings of satisfaction and well-being.

What studies have shown is that when we are either thinking about kind acts or witnessing kind acts or engaging in acts of kindness to other people, there are several biochemical changes that happen in our brains. One of the most important things that happen is that it releases oxytocin, a neurotransmitter that’s been studied extensively for its role in promoting a sense of belonging. Research also shows that kindness can be cardioprotective, and can decrease blood pressure and cortisol.

This week we have been celebrating all the big and little acts of kindness. Each act of kindness contributes to each member of our school community's sense of belonging. We could not be prouder of how each student this week shone brightly performing multiple acts of kindness!