By: Natalia Velychko
Friday, November 13th, was World Kindness Day. Wait, is that a joke? Friday the 13th?
While it may seem like another thing to add to the list, the world is hungry and war-torn, with icebergs melting, animals going extinct, and a pandemic killing thousands of people daily; right now, kindness is needed most.
On a day devoted to the positive potential of both large and small acts of kindness, this global celebration aims to promote and diffuse this crucial quality that brings people of every kind together. As outlined by the World Kindness Movement, formed in 1997, the purpose of World Kindness Day is “to highlight good deeds in the community focusing on the positive power and the common thread of kindness which binds us.” Since its creation more than two decades ago, the day has achieved truly global notice; events associated with the day have attracted participants from every inhabited continent. These have included concerts, volunteering, kindness cards, virtual celebrations, and like our very own school, an entire week dedicated to reminding us to be kind.
Kindness can be as simple as listening or even saying “thank you” because even the small acts can leave an impact on others. People who are kind produce 23% less cortisol, which is the stress hormone. Because of the lower levels of stress, people who practice kindness age slower than the average population. When we take the time to acknowledge others, we activate our mirror neurons, activating a cascade of natural pleasure chemicals such as oxytocin and dopamine. Oxytocin is released when we bond with others, and dopamine gives us a sense of reward. The emotional and physiological enjoyment we get from these connections makes us healthier and happier.
And kindness is not limited to yourself. Take a break and do what makes you happy. Whether it be exercise, meditation, or even your favorite show, choose something to clear your mind from any stress. Even sleep is a part of the self-care practice. Kindness is something you can practice every day. And here are a few ways you can incorporate it into your daily routine.
- Greet your teachers when you join a Zoom class.
- Smile at everybody. It’s contagious!
- Give a compliment.
- Call or text a friend.
- Write what you’re grateful for.