Can you choose kindness?
Kindness can be described as the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate.
Compassionate, forgiving, merciful, empathetic, and understanding are other words I associate with kindness. I like to think of kindness as a lifestyle, a skill that you can learn and strengthen. You might have a lot going on right now, that perhaps, incorporating acts of kindness might not be a priority at this time. Perhaps, an act of kindness might look like being kind to yourself first before trying to pour kindness towards others.
Engaging in acts of kindness has an impact on your physiological and mental health. Research says that kindness improves your immune system, cognitive performance, energy, happiness, and joy. It increases your self-esteem, heals internal wounds, and improves your overall heart health; making it more likely to live a longer, healthier, and more satisfying life. Kindness also decreases physical pain, stress levels, blood pressure, and reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety. Being kind has a ripple effect. When others witness an act of kindness, it encourages them to do the same. A fun fact: when you engage in acts of kindness your brain lights up as if you were the beneficiary of the act!
Examples of kindness towards others:
Opening or holding the door
Checking-in on others and genuinely being there for them
Encouraging one another
Not being quick to react when others are being unkind
Praying for others
Examples of kindness towards yourself:
Taking at least 5 minutes for yourself daily
Doing things that you enjoy
Forgiving yourself
Saying “no” more often by establishing healthy boundaries
Going for a walk or exercising
I encourage you to not take things personally if others don’t respond the way you anticipate. That person may be going through something in life or perhaps even struggling with a disability that you don’t know about. This is a perfect moment to be empathetic towards others. I know it can also be tempting to compare yourself to others acts of kindness, but don’t put that pressure on yourself. We are all fearfully and wonderfully made in His image (Psalm 139:14). Therefore, remember you are individually unique and have a lot to offer as well!
If you’re reading this, I encourage you to reflect on the following questions:
What does kindness mean to you?
How does kindness look like to you and how are you incorporating it into your daily life?
Now, think of a time when someone was kind to you and how it made you feel. If you can’t think of anyone being kind to you then I’d like to extend this message to remind you that you are worthy of kindness. You have a purpose in life, and encourage you to be the light in someone’s life today!
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Article by Contributing Wellspring Therapist:
This week's episode:
Wellspring Therapists, Mario de Armas and Katherine Aparicio, talk about the importance of kindness and how including kindness into your life can impact your mental health.