In the day-to-day hustle and bustle of modern life we can get so caught up in routine and responsibility that we often forget to step outside of our own little bubbles. We all feel overwhelmed, stressed or frustrated at times – in need of some kindness or compassion from a loved one (or stranger) to perk us up. But here’s the curveball…do you ever take a moment to do something kind for someone else? Other than helping to make someone else smile, being kind to others has numerous health benefits for you!
Now put it into action!
We created a set of printable “Random Acts of Kindness” cards to help you get started. They include 54 suggested kind actions you can do right away. We recommend popping the cards into a jar and drawing one out each week to follow through on. You can get the whole family involved by encouraging each family member to join in and do the same act of kindness for someone else.
You could even place a jar of these at your next dinner party or function as not only are they great conversation starters, but it’s also a way for you to pay it forward and encourage others to be kind. Here is a list of some of our suggestions for your random acts of kindness that all go a long way in making someone else’s day, while improving your own mental and physical well-being.
- Bake dessert for a neighbor
- Give a stranger a compliment
- Do a favor without asking for anything in return
- Wash someone’s car
- Shop at a child’s lemonade stand
- Pick some flowers for a friend
By the way, did you know? Kindness is good for you too!
Kindness boosts serotonin, the feel-good hormone that is the first to be depleted during times of stress and turmoil. Scientists have shown that people who regularly practice kindness show an increase in positive feelings such as joy, interest and focus – feelings often negatively affected by anxiety.
Kindness is good for your heart emotionally and physically. Acts of kindness release oxytocin, which in turn sets off the release of a chemical called nitric acid. This helps lower your blood pressure when you’re stressed or anxious. So now you know that what they say is true… kind people do live longer!
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