World Kindness Day: Here’s why being kind is great for you

The memories of my first days of school are etched in my mind like a photograph. I was a timid and fragile 5-year-old, feeling lost in a sea of strangers. The experience was overwhelming and I often found myself struggling to cope with the unfamiliar surroundings. But amidst the chaos, there was a guiding light named Jessie, my class teacher.

Jessie was not just any teacher; she was the epitome of kindness. Whenever I was lost in the crowd, struggling to find my way or simply feeling overwhelmed by the newness of it all, she was there, extending her gentle hand with a reassuring smile. And her acts of kindness weren’t confined to the classroom; she often went above and beyond to make her students feel safe and cherished. She’d often help me board the school bus, wipe away my tears when I missed my parents and provide a warm embrace of support during the most challenging of days.

Jessie’s acts of kindness had a profound impact on my mental health and overall wellbeing. Her presence and support helped me feel calm, relaxed and secure in an otherwise overwhelming environment. I no longer dreaded going to school; instead, I looked forward to it. Her kindness created a positive atmosphere that steadily built an excitement in me to learn and connect with my classmates.

Kindness is essential as it fosters compassion, unity and understanding. Acts of kindness inspire change by creating a ripple effect, influencing others to practice kindness, ultimately leading to a more empathetic society. World Kindness Day celebrated globally on November 13th is a day to promote kindness and empathy. People from all around the world are urged to participate in various acts of kindness, not just on that day but regularly in life.

Once people start being kind daily, it reflects on their wellbeing positively. On this special day join us as we explore the power of kindness and how being kind works on our health and wellbeing.

Reduces stress and anxiety

Practising kindness, whether through random acts of kindness or consistent compassion towards others, can help alleviate our stress and anxiety. Acts of kindness trigger the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone”. This neurochemical not only promotes feelings of bonding but also reduces stress levels.

When you’re kind to others, your body’s stress response lessens, leading to a calmer and more relaxed state of mind.

Enhances emotional wellbeing

Kindness has a direct impact on your emotional wellbeing. Engaging in charitable activities, volunteering or simply showing kindness towards friends and strangers can elevate your mood and increase your overall happiness. For instance, if you feed stray dogs daily or give your neighbour’s kid weekly reading lessons, it activates the brain’s reward centre, releasing dopamine. This natural feel-good response provides a lasting sense of fulfillment and contentment through the day.

Further, practising kindness on a regular basis ensures an everlasting affair with happiness.

Strengthens relationships

Kindness plays a pivotal role in strengthening relationships. And healthy relationships  contribute to our overall wellbeing. When we are kind, considerate and empathetic in our interactions with others, we build deeper connections and trust. This leads to more satisfying and supportive relationships, be it with extended family members, friends or even colleagues. Wit deeper bonds, we also tend to be patient in the face of anger or chaos.

All this ties up nicely with science that states having strong human relationships is a significant factor in long-term health and happiness.

Improves physical health

The benefits of kindness extend beyond your emotional and mental health. Research has shown that acts of kindness can lead to improved physical health. Engaging in benevolent activities like volunteering in an NGO or making monthly donations at an old age home has been linked to lowered blood pressure, improved heart health and a stronger immune system in people. This phenomenon can be attributed to the stress-reducing effects of kindness.

World Kindness Day serves as a valuable reminder that being kind isn’t just good for others; it’s also incredibly beneficial for your health and wellbeing. When you incorporate kindness into your daily life, you’re not only spreading positivity but also enhancing your own physical and mental health. So for your sake and for others in this shared world, let’s try and be kind daily!