Have you ever noticed how good it feels to help someone? Carrying a neighbour’s shopping, sending a thoughtful message or simply listening to a friend can leave you feeling warm and connected.
Researchers have been curious about this feeling too. A review that pulled together many studies suggested a modest link between kindness and wellbeing, and possibly some aspects of physical health, though the effects were small and varied between people. Kindness isn’t a treatment, but it’s a lovely way to care for others and yourself at the same time.
Kindness in everyday life
Kindness doesn’t have to be grand. Some of the most meaningful acts are small:
- holding a door or letting someone go ahead in a queue;
- sending a message to say you’re thinking of someone;
- listening without interrupting;
- offering a genuine compliment;
- helping a neighbour with a small task;
- sharing food with someone;
- volunteering, if you have the time and energy.
Informal kindness counts
Formal volunteering is wonderful, but everyday kindness is just as valuable. If you already help in your community, through a place of worship, a school or a local group, that counts beautifully. If not, small daily acts are a perfect place to start.
Kindness includes boundaries
Being kind doesn’t mean saying yes to everything or exhausting yourself. Looking after your own energy is a form of kindness too. You can care deeply for others and still say no when you need to.
Notice how it feels
After an act of kindness, pause and notice how you feel. Many people describe a sense of warmth, connection or meaning. Noticing this can encourage more kindness over time.
How little is enough
Choose one small act of kindness each day this week. Notice how it feels for you and for the person receiving it.
For more, read Bring more kindness into your life.
If you’d like to keep exploring, you’ll find a few gentle guides on the Guides page.