Random Acts Of Kindness And How They Fuel Us

Do you ever feel run down, like you're stuck in a rut and can't get out? It seems like everywhere we turn these days, the world is a little bit crazier than it used to be. Maybe you've been working too hard, or taking care of others and not taking care of yourself. Or maybe you just need a change of scenery. Whatever the case may be, sometimes we all can use a pick-me-up. And one of the best ways to do that is by being kind to one another.
 
We could all use a little more kindness in our lives. But did you know that being kind can actually uplift our mood and increase feelings of belonging and connection? That's right! According to neuroscience, random acts of kindness can help to increase our overall sense of well-being and happiness. Kindness is an easy way to strengthen the neural pathways related to the feel-good hormones dopamine (the neurotransmitter that influences mood and motivation) and oxytocin (better known as the “love hormone” it is the neurotransmitter that helps us feel those warm and fuzzy feelings and also has a calming effect on our stress levels)![1] When you show yourself or someone else kindness, it's like experiencing a warm hug of connection. So next time you're feeling stressed or low, why not try brightening someone else's day? It just might make your own day a little better too.

Kindness With Intention

 

Kindness with intention can have an incredible impact on our lives. However, it becomes more than just a random act of kindness when you carry out an action with true intention. The art of intention-setting is a powerful way to bridge the gap between thoughts and reality. It's an incredible tool that can shape our lives, taking us from what we imagine in our minds to where we want to be in life. Instead of doing something in hopes that your gesture will make people happy, take the time to really think about the person or situation and how best your kindness can make a meaningful difference. When we open our hearts and reach out with intention and sincerely offer something without expecting anything in return, it has an uplifting power that is two-fold; both for us and for the person(s). The next time you're faced with a chance to practice kindness, pause for a minute and look at how you can turn it into something intended to bring joy to somebody else. You may be surprised at how much your heart can grow from being kind with purpose!

 

The Power Of A Smile

 

It's amazing how something as simple as a smile can have so much power. A sincere smile can brighten the day of someone in need, cheer up a friend feeling down, and even reduce stress within yourself. It can only take an instant to flash a smile and it could end up being just what someone needed at that moment. The beauty of a smile lies in its incredible ability to bring people together; it is an action that is universally understood and shows support and acceptance in any situation. All it takes is one genuine smile to show someone that you are on their side and earnestly want the best for them. Let your kindness show through the power of your radiant smile :).

 

Saying Thank You

 

Saying thank you is a timeless practice that shapes how we interact with the world. Not only are we better equipped to show gratitude and appreciation for all that life brings our way, but it also brightens up someone's day when they hear a simple "thank you" from us. Acknowledging another individual's efforts offers them validation and respect that can cause a lasting (good) impression. This small act has the power to make someone's day and really bring out the best in people. Taking the time to thank those around us creates stronger relationships and fosters an environment of understanding and mutual respect and appreciation. As we each take a step forward in this journey called life, we should always remember to thank one another.

 

Be Kind To Yourself

 

Lastly, let’s be gentle with ourselves rather than harsh. Would you support and encourage your best friend, so why not do the same for you? If there is one piece of advice we should all take to heart, it's to be kind to ourselves. It can be so easy to fall into the trap of negative thinking, but this couldn't be further from what we need. Being kind to yourself means taking time out of your day for some self-care, whatever that may look like for you. Whether that's making time for self care with our simple skincare routine, getting enough sleep or carving out time for the things you love, small acts like these can add up to make a big difference in how we internally feel about ourselves. One way I like to show kindness to my mind is by squeezing in a moment of mindfulness or a 5-15 minute meditation at the start of my day.

 

Conclusion

 

When we put our focus on making someone else's day just a little bit brighter, it has a ripple effect that comes back to us tenfold. We not only feel good in the moment, but we also receive an influx of feel-good vibes that help to sustain us throughout the day. It doesn't matter if we don't know the person we are helping, or if they will never be able to repay us, what matters is that we make a conscious decision to add some positivity to the world. So go ahead and add a little extra kindness to your day. Whether it's holding the door open for someone, buying them a coffee, sending a handwritten note, or cooking dinner for a friend in need. We can all experience that warm, fuzzy feeling when we pay kindness forward. Choose one act of kindness that you plan to do today and update us in the comments!

 

[1] Esch, Tobias, and George B Stefano. “The neurobiological link between compassion and love.” Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research vol. 17,3 (2011): RA65-75. doi:10.12659/msm.881441
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