"Be kind whenever possible. And it is always possible." - Dalai Lama
Its true!
A recent article by the Mayo Clinic noted the many health benefits of being kind to others. Numerous doctors, psychologists and teachers have noted that acts of kindness can be mentally, physically and spiritually beneficial for those who choose to be kind.
While kindness in and of itself is not a magic wellbeing pill, it some of its positive side-effects can have lasting impact.
Here are a few of the many benefits youll realize from being kind:
1. Stress Reduction. Acts of kindness have been linked to a reduction in stress levels. Engaging in kind and altruistic behaviors triggers the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone. Oxytocin helps to lower stress hormones, leading to a calmer and more relaxed state of mind. By regularly practicing kindness, you create a positive feedback loop that contributes to long-term stress resilience.
2. Enhanced Emotional Resilience. Acts of kindness foster emotional resilience by promoting a sense of connectedness and social support. Building positive relationships through acts of kindness creates a support system that can help you navigate life's challenges more effectively. Knowing that you have a network of caring people can boost your emotional resilience, providing a buffer against stressors and hardships.
3. Physical Health Benefits. Kindness also has tangible effects on physical health. Studies have found that engaging in acts of kindness can lead to improvements in cardiovascular health. The positive emotions associated with kindness contribute to better heart health by reducing blood pressure and promoting overall cardiovascular well-being. Additionally, the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals, during acts of kindness contributes to a general sense of well-being.
And the acts need not be elaborate. Simple things like holding the door for someone, calling an old friend, checking on an elderly neighbor, or buying coffee for a stranger can make the world, and your being, a better place.
At First United Bank, we have discovered that the benefits of kindness have real impact on our communities, making them better places to live, work and thrive. Ready to do yourself and the world some good? You can be part of our United Acts of Kindness campaign, and pledge to commit acts of kindness. This year, we are trying to break our record of 350,000 acts of kindness performed on one day - February 16, 2024.
It's so simple to get involved. Just visit UnitedActsOfKindness.org to take the pledge and register your acts.
Here's to your health!
Barbara Carnahan is Director of Wellness at First United Bank, which has over 95 bank, mortgage, and insurance locations across Oklahoma and Texas.