BE KIND.

Research keeps showing us that practicing kindness can do things like reduce stress and anxiety, increase feelings of happiness, strengthen relationships, improve self-esteem and create a greater sense of belonging and security. Our brains are constantly responding to the way we interact with others and how we silently talk to ourselves too. Let's take a sneak peek into some our brain chemicals:

Dopamine> gives us that “feel good” response when we accomplish something or receive positive recognition. A compliment can trigger this reward system, reinforcing and/or strengthening all those feel-good chemicals!

Serotonin> plays an important role in our mood, self-esteem, and emotional well-being. Feeling appreciated, respected, or valued can help increase serotonin activity, contributing to a greater sense of happiness and enhance our overall emotional stability.

Oxytocin>is released during positive social interactions and further helps us build trust, strengthen relationships, and a create feeling of connection. 

Cortisol> is the body's primary stress hormone and is also reduced when stress levels decrease, resulting in us feeling calmer, thinking more clearly, and coping with challenges more effectively.

Mental health is influenced by many factors, and I am not saying that acts of kindness alone are a magic wand, but they can be a meaningful part of a healthier emotional environment. Sometimes, a few sincere words can provide hope, strengthen connection, and remind someone they are not invisible. You never truly know what another person is carrying, and sometimes the smallest act of kindness can provide a sense of connection, compassion, and can help quiet self-doubt, lift a heavy heart, and restore a little hope for someone in need.

The beautiful part is that when we focus on lifting others up, we often find ourselves feeling more positive as well. So, let’s spread kindness and be kind to ourselves, because both are equally important. Replace self-criticism with self-compassion, celebrate your progress, forgive your mistakes, and remember your efforts. We are often our own harshest critics, so let’s try to reduce how loud and negative our own criticism can be while we spread kindness to those around us.

Kindly and with care,

Julie