In amongst the hectic hustle of our gruelling schedules, random acts of kindness hone the ability to move us on a deeper level. There’s a sense of fulfilment and healing to be found in even the simplest of acts. Here’s the Science of Random Acts of Kindness.

Spiritually and emotionally, we feel uplifted and somewhat strengthened. It’s essentially contagious. Being kind to both yourself and others can, in fact, boost your well-being, but now, there is actual science to back up one of humankind’s most cherished social currencies. When we give and receive kindness, we open ourselves to a world of possibilities.

Here’s what we cover in this guide:

• Feel-Good Chemicals

• Connections With Others

• The ‘Love’ Hormone

• Longer Lifespan

• Energy Levels

• 3 Tips to Get Started

• Examples of Random Acts of Kindness

Tips to Get Started

It all begins with yourself.

To be kind to others, first, we need to learn to be kind to ourselves. Daily, most individuals are battling with their inner dialogue, torn between taunting memories of the past or twisted worries about the future. The key to getting started is nestled in self-compassion.

We can benefit from many positive possibilities once we learn to harness all the elements that make self-compassion (mindfulness, self-kindness, and common humanity). From reducing depression and anxiety to building our resilience and optimism, self-compassion generates an enticing array of opportunities. Beginning with the intention and effort to befriend ourselves is a great starting point.

Nurture your kindness instincts.

Although some of us are more empathetic than others, we are all born with an instinct for kindness and compassion. Referred to as the “sympathy instinct” by Charles Darwin, he suggested that it is, in fact, this very trait that helped the human species not only to survive but flourish. On a biological basis, our nervous systems have evolved over time to have a highly attuned sensitivity regarding caring about others.

Learning to cultivate and strengthen your natural instincts of kindness and compassion can happen when we intentionally redirect our energy. Apart from focusing our attention on the positive aspects of humanity, we can additionally nurture these traits through loving-kindness meditation, which involves closing your eyes, thinking of and sending someone you love wishes of well-being and love, and then repeating affirmations.

Look for different ways to be kind.

Finding different ways of cultivating more kindness in our lives can sometimes prove quite challenging. Take the first step by starting small. As they say in Spanish, ‘‘poco a poco’’, or ‘‘little by little’’. So what exactly is a random act of kindness? From helping out an elderly neighbour, dishing out generous compliments, practising self-care, listening to a friend who needs to talk, reflecting on gratitude, donating to a charity, or finding other ways to be of service, there are myriad possibilities to get started today with the gift of kindness.

So, do random acts of kindness really make a difference? Being kind to others not only boosts our well-being but can create more fulfilment and connection within our lives. The Science of Random Acts of Kindness states that both the giver and receiver can benefit immensely on a psychological, social, and biological level. The case for kindness thereby helps us to be more authentic in our pursuit of happiness throughout the ups and downs of our everyday lives.

How have you shown kindness to someone today?