by K. Russell

Created on: March 08, 2009   Last Updated: June 17, 2010

There is no denying the simple pleasure one feels after helping someone else. The recipient is blessed with an unexpected brightness in their day. Even observers, people who hear about it, and those who interact with either the giver or the recipient get to share in the happiness that was generated by these healthy acts of kindness and that happiness is healthy.

It is said that laughter is the best medicine. Those who suffer from chronic pain have discovered that happiness and laughter help relieve the pain. Walking into a room of angry people can feel like a physical blow to the psyche. In the same way, random, healthy acts of kindness generate a positive feeling that spreads in a ripple effect of physical activity and generosity of spirit that improves the health and wellbeing of everyone involved. Healthy acts of kindness do not need to be huge overtures or massive donations of time, money, or goods to be effective.

Going for a walk with a lonely neighbor two or three times a week is healthy for both of you. Making the time to help an elderly friend with their yard work is both kind and healthy. Not only is the physical activity a boost to your health by burning calories and building muscle, but the kindness you extend releases endorphins and stimulates your immune system into working better.

In extreme cases of need , offering a hungry person a hot meal can provide the recipient with the nutrition they need and the perspective you may have lost. Donating unwanted coats, blankets, shoes, and food to help victims of natural disaster or domestic violence can help you to appreciate what you have and to know that you are helping where it is needed. That improvement in your perspective and the open space created within your home are both crucial to your own good health.

Human beings are social beings that need to interact with one another. By simply offering our time and our companionship, we are improving the lives of those around us, as well as our own. Reaching out, offering support, time, conversation, or just by listening, our kindness enriches lives and creates better health for everyone involved. The ripple effect expands in every direction, positively touching more lives than anyone will ever know. Givers return from helping someone else with a renewed vigor and a deeper calm that carries into their own future with the joy and confidence they were born to claim.

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