Kindness is free; life-changing

Kindness. It’s such a simple word. And yet, this one word can be life changing. In 1998, The World Kindness Movement introduced International World Kindness Day, celebrated every year on November 13. The day, which is designed to inspire everyone to be kind to each other, is celebrated by several countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, the United Kingdom, and even Nigeria.

There is so much to kindness. We all know to be kind to ourselves. Treat ourselves to ice cream, buy an outfit we’ve been wanting, even taking a bit at the end of our day to read a good book or watch an episode of our favorite show. Indeed, we must be kind to ourselves. The stress of daily life can take its toll and wear us down. That is why it is so important to do these little acts of kindness for ourselves.

It’s also important to remember that small little acts of kindness towards others can also be as meaningful.

A friendly wave and smile to our neighbor. Holding the door open for someone. Compliment someone on their parking. All of these little acts of kindness has the potential to leave a lasting impact on someone.

And kindness doesn’t have to be small things. It has the potential to impact the world. Plant a tree, or gather a group and plant trees.

Use a travel mug for coffee instead of throw away cups. Walk or ride a bike to work. These are all wonderful ideas for kindness that not only benefit you, but the entire world.

While it may seem like these small acts of kindness won’t have an impact, the truth is, kindness is catching.

You see, that neighbor you smiled and waved at woke up in a bad mood. Your small act of kindness may have changed their whole outlook on the day. They may pass on the kindness by holding the door open for a mother whose toddler was acting up in the store. That mother may go home, put her child down for a nap and then decide to finally read the book she has been waiting months to read.

More importantly, when our children see us being kind to ourselves, to others, to the Earth, and even to our furry friends, they to, want to be kind. It’s been said that children are our future and indeed they are. Imagine a world where our kids learn the value of

kindness in all its forms. Even traffic could be a pleasant experience.

There is also scientifically proven reasons to be kind. Not only is it teachable and contagious, there are physical benefits to being kind.

It increases our happy hormone oxytocin which aids in lowering blood pressure and the overall health of our heart. It can increase our energy levels. It can even increase our lifespan. It can also reduce anxiety and depression. These effects are not just limited to those doing the act. It also has a positive effect on everyone who witnessed the act.

Kindness is possibly the most important thing we can do. So the next time you’re in line at the grocery store, let that person with two items go in front of you. Smile at your neighbor.

Visit your local nursing home and listen to their stories.

Plant a tree.

Donate blood.

Adopt a furry friend from your local shelter.

If you’d like more information of acts of kindness or are a teacher and would like more information on teaching kindness in the classroom, please visit randomactsofkindness.org and go be kind.