Have You Heard of Random Acts of Kindness?

One of the most impactful and fun ways to spread kindness is to do so with random acts. You’ve probably heard of random acts of kindness. This is when you do something unexpectedly for someone else simply to make their day or to ease their burden in some way. Join me as we examine what it means to do a random act of kindness and the many benefits these deeds can offer both the recipient and the giver.

About Random Acts of Kindness

It’s believed that the term began with a menu quote by Anne Herbert that read, “Practice random acts of kindness and senseless acts of beauty.” Random acts of kindness, sometimes seen as RAKs, have become a movement in recent years. No action is too big or too small. In fact, some of the most meaningful examples tend to come in the form of simple gestures. You don’t have to spend a lot of money or make an elaborate plan. The one requirement is that the act be unexpected with nothing desired in return.

Health Benefits of RAKs

Let’s first take a look specifically at the health benefits of random acts of kindness. There has been a ton of research on the subject, and researchers have noted several ways that doing good for others also benefits your health. First of all, you can actually lessen your pain levels by performing good deeds. Being kind has shown to increase endorphin levels. Endorphins are your body’s own natural painkillers. Another physical health benefit that comes from this type of behavior is lower blood pressure. That’s due to a surge of the hormone oxytocin that occurs from the positive emotions generated by RAKs. This production of oxytocin is a catalyst for the release of a chemical called nitric oxide, which helps to dilate the blood vessels. Finally, there are studies that show acts of volunteerism contribute significantly to an increase in lifespan. Seems like a pretty good reason to get started with RAKs to me!

Random Acts of Kindness and Emotional Well-Being

The beneficial results of doing good deeds is probably most immediately felt in your emotional state. Being kind has repeatedly been shown to improve mood. It lessens anxiety and lowers incidents of depression. Energy levels, feelings of self-worth, and relationship satisfaction have also been shown to increase in association with performances of good will. Stress is lowered, too. Kindness causes the reward centers of the brain to become more active and increases levels of chemicals like serotonin and oxytocin. These functions result in all sorts of wonderful feelings.

I hope this information has inspired you to get out there and start engaging in RAKs of your own. There are plenty of opportunities for you to make someone else’s day and improve your own in the process.

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