It's Science

I stumbled across some interesting scientific findings about kindness that I thought would be fun to share.

1. Kindness gets rid of stress.  People who are naturally kind have 23% less cortisol, which is the stress hormone.
2. Being kind increases stamina.  In a research study, 50% of the participants reported that they felt stronger and more energetic after helping people.
3. People 55 and older who volunteer regularly have a 44% lower likelihood of dying early, and that’s after sifting out every other contributing factor, including physical health, exercise, gender, habits like smoking, marital status and many more. This is a stronger effect than exercising four times a week.
4. Being kind can reduce your blood pressure.  It has been found in studies that practicing acts of kindness helps release a hormone known as oxytocin, which protects the heart by reducing blood pressure. Oxytocin also increases our self-esteem and optimism, which is extra helpful when we are feeling anxious or shy.  It is often referred to as the "love hormone" and plays a role in forming bonds and trust.
5. Kindness stabilizes our mood. It stimulates the production of serotonin, which is basically a mood stabilizer.
6. Being kind makes us happy. Performing an act of kindness triggers elevated levels of dopamine in the brain and a natural high is produced, often referred to as ‘helper’s high.’
7. Engaging in acts of kindness produces endorphins, the brain’s natural painkiller.
8. Mindfulness-based therapy is becoming increasingly popular for treating depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. The therapy includes documenting your gratitude and acts of kindness. People being treated in a mindfulness-based therapy program incorporate acts of kindness into their daily routines.

It's science people.