When we are kind to ourselves or to others, we can experience beneficial mental and physical advantages because kindness lowers stress and increases the body’s production of feel-good hormones like dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin. Having a good attitude boosts the immune system, reduces blood pressure, and lessens anxiety and stress. It’s good that practicing kindness isn’t difficult. The Dalai Lama counseled, “Be as kind as you can.” There is always a possibility. Being good to others doesn’t have to involve making a huge or life-altering decision. The smallest acts of charity are typically the ones that have the most impact. A simple “I see you” smile, a kind remark, a helping hand with a heavy load, or a supportive moment during a difficult time can all make a big difference. Whatever the act itself, the following four concepts will support it: Awareness: We must be aware of the opportunity to be nice. We won’t be able to recognize the need if we are entirely consumed with our thoughts, our own lives, or our online personas. Non-judgment: In order to be truly compassionate, we must be prepared to suspend our own judgments. It is not our place to judge the goodness or wrongness of another person’s circumstances. The only thing left is for us to acknowledge the possibility of kindness. By being polite, kind, and thoughtful to the person in front of us, we must act. Awareness alone cannot create kindness. Giving kindness should always be done voluntarily and without expecting anything in return. The real reward for kindness is found within, not in any payment or acknowledgment from elsewhere.
