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Kindness, not just a very nice word
Did you know that kindness is not just about being nice? It’s so much more than that. Kindness can mean different things to different people, whether it be a gesture, a good turn, empathy, or with acceptance, and it all starts from within.
According to the Mental Health Foundation*, kindness is an antidote to isolation and creates a sense of belonging, helping to reduce stress, bring a fresh perspective and deepen friendships.
However small or large the act of kindness, research has shown it can enhance our health and wellbeing. A kind act increases the production of serotonin, the feel-good chemical, and at the same time, reduces cortisol, the stress hormone**. It’s a win-win situation, positive for you, and the person receiving the act of kindness – which creates a "pay it forward" situation, with the recipient passing on that kindness someone else.
There are plenty of opportunities for random acts of kindness, here are three:
- Ring a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while
- Give someone a compliment
- Smile when you’re out for a walk!
Whatever you choose to do, give it a go, and give your serotonin stores a boost!
Introducing The School of Kindness
We have partnered with The School of Kindness who believe that kind is the most important thing a child can be. Their mission is to create a culture of kindness in classrooms, working with tens of thousands of children every year. They offer Kindness Workshops, resources and lessons plans, and provide small grants via their Kindness Fund.
Find out more:
schoolofkindness.org
* Mental Health Awareness Week: what's kindness got to do with mental health? | University of London