November 2018 - The Science of Kindness
By Karen Scott
“Three things in life are important: the first is to be kind; the second is to be kind; and the third is to be kind.” – Mark Twain
It is no surprise if you are the recipient of a kind act that you reap the benefit of that kindness….an uplift of your mood, and a sense of well-being.
But what about the giver of kindness? Being kind actually alters our body chemistry:
Research suggests that kindness not only helps others, it also helps our self. In fact, it may benefit the giver more than the receiver!
….. Mark Twain got it exactly right.
It is no surprise if you are the recipient of a kind act that you reap the benefit of that kindness….an uplift of your mood, and a sense of well-being.
But what about the giver of kindness? Being kind actually alters our body chemistry:
Research suggests that kindness not only helps others, it also helps our self. In fact, it may benefit the giver more than the receiver!
- A Being kind actually alters our body chemistry:AA kind act makes us feel good. It increases dopamine in our brain which gives us a natural ‘helper’s high’.
- It increases serotonin, nature’s antidepressant, in our brain, as well as the brain of the recipient of a kind act and even those who witness it!
- It generates emotional warmth which in turn produces oxytocin which lowers our blood pressure and protects our heart.
- It even slows aging by reducing stress hormones which cause inflammation and free radicals in our bodies. So be kind and live longer!
….. Mark Twain got it exactly right.