We recently started a Finding Joy series to support those of you who are struggling with all that life is throwing at you these days.

Last week, we focused on the importance of connecting with yourself and others as a way to add joy to your life.

As we approach World Kindness Day this week, we thought it was the perfect time to reflect on the various ways that kindness can bring you joy and improve your overall health and wellbeing.

Studies have shown that acts of kindness can increase your self-esteem, calmness, and optimism, and lower your blood pressure, stress levels, and anxiety (to name just a few!).

“When we feel love and kindness
toward others,
it not only makes others feel loved
and cared for,
but it helps us also
to develop inner happiness and peace.”
– Dalai Lama

There are several things you can do to gain the benefits of showing kindness to others. Even small, brief acts of kindness will support you in finding joy.

As you read through the suggestions below, consider which ones resonate with you.

  • Hold the door open for the person behind you.
  • Leave a thank you note for your mail carrier or trash collector.
  • Make a meal for your neighbor.
  • Create a volunteer group at work.
  • Pay for a stranger’s coffee.
  • Give a hug to a friend in need.
  • Let someone go ahead of you in line (in-person or in traffic!).
  • Send cards to loved ones and colleagues.
  • Donate your time to an organization that touches your heart.
  • Offer to mentor someone at work.
  • Help someone cross the street.

Whether it’s with loved ones, people in your community, or colleagues at work, we encourage you share this practice.

If you’d like additional content and suggestions, we recommend checking out the Random Acts of Kindness website.

Stay tuned for next week when we’ll talk about Finding Joy with Meaning.

Be well.

PLEASE NOTE: If you’re struggling or are having persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest, we encourage you to reach out to your physician, therapist, or a local mental health line for support. It’s important to take good care of yourself.

If you’d like support
Finding Joy in your days,
contact us today.