The Benefits of Spreading Kindness

Being kind to one another is a positive characteristic that everyone should possess. It’s also thought that being nice to others only benefits the person that is receiving the gesture. However, it is the giver of kindness that also has much to gain. Here are some benefits of spreading kindness.

Boosts Serotonin

Serotonin is a “feel-good” hormone that can be released when performing an act of kindness. Many people feel good about themselves after doing something nice which is the release of this hormone. Much like when you exercise, the same hormones cause a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. Doing nice things for others can boost your serotonin levels, leaving you feeling happier overall.

Reduces Anxiety

Many people have experienced some form of anxiousness in their lives whether it be mild anxiety to severe panic attacks. There are many different types of coping mechanisms for people who suffer from anxiety and being kind is one of them. Individuals who have social anxiety are typically anxious about how people perceive them. Doing something nice for others can reduce that feeling or reverse it due to the positive feedback or feeling they get from being kind.

Builds Better Relationships

Showing kindness to people tells them that they matter. From someone you know dearly or a stranger on the street, being nice lets individuals know that they mean something.

Being Kind Helps Your Heart

Not only does spreading kindness make your heart feel good emotionally but it can also physically be good for your heart. Oxytocin is another hormone that is released after being nice which actually can dilate your blood vessels and reduce blood pressure. It has also been noted that oxytocin reduces inflammation which can help with many other health issues as well.

Helps to Cope with Stress

As with a lot of people these days, life seems to get busier and busier leaving individuals stressed and frustrated. Along with the feel-good hormones, being kind to others can effectively help you learn how to cope with stress and steer it towards a more positive outcome.

The bottom line is, being nice isn’t just a random act of kindness that is only positive in that particular moment. It can have long-lasting emotional and physical effects that are truly good for your body. Not only is being kind good for others, but it is also great for individuals performing the act and can lead to a happier healthier life. Anyone can be kind and it can most certainly lead to a better world if everyone does their part.