Research shows that being kind to others, helps us to feel genuine happiness in a number of ways. By showing kindness to others through being generous and co-operating, it activates an area of the brain which responds to things we find rewarding such as nice foods and addictive drugs. The feel-good emotion from being kind to others has been termed “warm glow”, a biological response of that feeling.
But why and how does kindness make us feel happy? Here are five reasons why being kind to others makes us feel good:
- Smiling
Being kind will likely make someone smile. If you see that smile for yourself, it might be catchy. Seeing someone show emotion activates the same ares of the brain as if we experienced that emotion for ourselves.
- Act of kindness
A random act of kindness can also make us feel good. By helping someone who is sad feel better makes us feel good. This effect is especially powerful for people we are close to, it also applies to humanitarian problems. By getting engaged with charities has a positive impact to tackle issues and in turn improves our mood.
- Make connections
Being kind to opens possibilities of developing a social connection with someone, strengthens friendships and in turn improves mood.
- A kind Identity
Most people like to think they’re a kind person – acts of kindness reaffirms a positive identity and makes us feel proud. Being kind makes you feel better as a person, feel more complete and happy.
- What goes around comes around
Someone you’ve helped in the past is more likely to remember and will return the favour. Seeing someone demonstrating kindness prompts others to be kinder themselves and lifts everyone’s spirits.
Scientific fact – Being kind boosts your mood and being in a good mood makes you more kind. This makes for a wonderful two way relationship which just keeps giving.
“When you are kind to others, it not only changes you, it changes the world” Harold Kushner
Interested in adoption we would love to hear from you!