According to mentalhealth.org, research shows that kindness and our mental health are deeply connected. They say, “Kindness is an antidote to isolation and creates a sense of belonging. It helps reduce stress, brings a fresh perspective and deepens friendships.” Psychiatry.org says that research has also found that “kindness can increase happiness and self-esteem, while decreasing stress and emotional reactivity.”
At the end of the day, we are all “humans in need.” Everyone has basic human needs which provide us with ample opportunities to show kindness to others, while remembering to treat ourselves kindly too! Let acts of kindness flow naturally. It’s important that we are authentic in the ways we show kindness. People can feel if we do things in an obligatory way versus acts of kindness that flow from the heart. Leo Buscaglia says, “Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.”
Please let us all make a difference for ourselves and others today (and every day). I urge everyone to pick at least one act from Leo’s list that feels genuine and give the gift of kindness. We may never know the full domino effect our acts of kindness may have on another. However, we can be certain our acts of kindness really do matter!
Cheri Thomas
Cheri works as a Peer Support Specialist for RI in Arizona. She has experienced loss and grief which has led her to write for the masses to bring voice to those in similar situations. Cheri possesses a deep passion to share with, encourage, and inspire others on what she calls the Journey of the Heart.