The Art of Kindness

It is all very strange at the minute isn’t it, we are reimagining how we engage with our friends and family. Imagine if you could have a positive impact on those around you and make yourself feel happier.

We can all identify a time when a small act of kindness has transformed how we feel. As if by magic a kind gesture or a friendly wave can turn us from a stressed and frustrated individual into something more positive.

From baking a cake for your neighbours, to calling someone who you know is having a down day for a chat; these small acts of kindness mean more than you may think. In fact, research shows that just one act of kindness starts a ripple effect that could inspire others to follow suit. Kindness is your superpower!

Not only is it nice for others, but it is great for you! David R Hamilton, author of ‘Why kindness is good for you’ says ‘When we're kind, our bodies are healthiest. Being kind encourages our body to produce oxytocin, which lowers blood pressure, protects your heart and reduces inflammation. So not only is it good for our body, but it’s also a boost for our self esteem’.

One thing that we have seen all over the world is that kindness is prevailing in uncertain times; here are 10 everyday acts of kindness that you could try:

1. When out on our daily walk, we may not be able to stop and chatter but how about giving someone a smile! It’s free, it’s easy and it will make a huge difference.
2. Next time you are popping to the shop, ask your neighbour if there is anything you can pick up for them.
3. Get your friends or family together for an online chatter - why not take part in an online pub quiz? Check ‘virtual pub quiz’ every Thursday night on Youtube, found here.
4. Pick up the phone and call a friend or family member for no reason other than to chat and ask how they are.
5. Get involved; many people have been clapping every Thursday night at 8pm for our key workers on the front line, all of whom are doing an exceptional job.
6. Support a good cause, change.org has many petitions to sign on almost every matter/subject - why not start your own if there is something you feel passionate about.
7. If you’ve enjoyed a good book recently, could you share it with a neighbour or a friend.
8. Maybe you are a keen baker? Why not bake a cake to share. Don’t forget to try our Lemon Meringue Pie recipe this week found here!
9. Pop a picture of a rainbow or a teddy bear in your window for those people who are on their daily walks; you’ll see many in your neighbourhood.
10. If you are able, why not donate to a local food bank.