Kindness Matters
Kindness is a universal language that can bring people together and a character strength that’s defined as doing favors and good deeds for others, helping, and taking care. It’s no secret that being kind feels good. It makes us feel connected, appreciated, and happy. Plus, it’s a win-win. When we show up for others and ourselves kindly, the benefits go both ways. Practicing kindness for the sake of kindness is one of the greatest gifts we can give to others and ourselves.
Research shows that being kind boosts the production of feel-good hormones like serotonin and dopamine and can release endorphins, the body’s natural painkiller. It’s been linked to reducing blood pressure and the stress hormone, cortisol. Kindness also fosters our sense of belonging and helps us build and strengthen our relationships.
And to top it all off, kindness doesn’t need to cost a thing!
Monday, November 13, is World Kindness Day. While national observances help to raise awareness, practicing kindness year-round can have a profound ripple effect, inspiring others to do the same. Let’s create a culture of kindness! It only starts with a one simple act.
Join Us!
Kindness Kudoboard
Smiled at a stranger? Did your roommate’s laundry? Treated a coworker to coffee? Sent a Yale chat sticker? Share your random act of kindness on our Kudoboard! Unsure where to start? Check out some of our favorite way to spread kindness on campus.
Loving-kindness Community Meditation
November 13, 12:15 – 12:45 PM.
Join in-person at 205 Whitney Ave or via Zoom.
To join in-person, please contact danielle.casioppo@yale.edu by 11:30 AM that day for full location details. If joining on Zoom, please contact beingwell@yale.edu if you need the Yale Community Meditation zoom link prior to the event, by 12PM day of at the latest.
The Mental Health Benefits of Gratitude and Kindness workshop
November 14 at noon on Zoom.
Gratitude and kindness are both important character strengths, but did you know that they are also beneficial for your mental health? Research indicates that purposefully practicing gratitude can reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Studies also suggest that more acts of kindness throughout the day contribute to increased feelings of happiness and well-being. And that’s not all, kindness has also been demonstrated as a way to reduce social anxiety. Register today!
Learn more
The Unexpected Power of Random Acts of Kindness
Why Kindness Matters | Psychology Today
Hamilton, D. (2017). The five side effects of kindness: This book will make you feel better, be happier & live longer. Hay House UK.