MICHELLE KEENAN empowers people and organisations to achieve optimal well-being by providing customised wellness coaching programmes tailored to their unique goals.
We often think of kindness as something we do for others.
It’s a way to brighten someone’s day, lend a hand, or show support.
But there’s a twist you may not be aware of – acts of kindness don’t just benefit the receiver, they’re incredibly good for the giver too!
Research shows helping others triggers the release of feel-good chemicals in the brain, with oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin all contributing to what’s sometimes called the “helper’s high”.
Kindness lowers stress, boosts mood, and even supports heart health.
Helping others is even believed to increase levels of an endorphin-like chemical in the body called “substance P”, which can relieve pain.
People who regularly engage in small acts of kindness often report greater life satisfaction and stronger social connections. In short, there’s no downside.
It doesn’t have to be big or complicated. Smiling at a stranger, offering to carry someone’s groceries, or checking in on a neighbour can all make a difference.
Even the smallest gestures create ripples – you never know how far your act of kindness might spread.
If you’re looking to weave more kindness into your daily life, try these simple ideas:
- Send a message of appreciation to a friend or colleague.
- Pay it forward with a coffee for someone else.
- Offer your time by volunteering in your community.
- Practice everyday kindness – hold the door open, let someone merge in traffic, or simply listen without distraction.
Kindness creates connection. When we give to others, we remind ourselves we’re part of a bigger community, and that what we do matters.
That sense of purpose and belonging is one of the strongest foundations of wellbeing.
So next time you have the chance, choose kindness. You’ll be doing something wonderful for someone else and giving your own wellbeing a beautiful boost at the same time.
