Spreading kindness not only helps others feel better about themselves, but it can also be excellent for your health and happiness AND it’s backed by science!!

Putting the well-being of others before our own without expecting anything in return stimulates the reward centers of the brain, studies have shown. Those feel-good chemicals flood our system, producing a sort of “helper’s high.” Volunteering, for example, has been shown to minimize stress and improve depression.

I’ll be honest, my volunteer time at Camp Rainbow is amazing! I love each and every one of the campers and volunteers!

That’s not all: The same activity can also reduce the risk for cognitive impairment and even help us live longer. One reason for this, experts say, is because kindness contributes to our sense of community and belonging.

Giving donations to others has been shown to reduce blood pressure and improve heart health.

Giving seems to lessen our pain. A recent study found that people who said they would donate money to help orphans were less sensitive to an electric shock than those who declined to give. In addition, the more helpful people thought their donation would be, the less pain they felt.

Researchers also found that being kind could boost happiness in as little as three days. You’ll experience even greater joy if you’re creative with your acts of kindness.

There are literally hundreds of ideas on the internet, but here are a few to get you started:

While driving, make room for the car that wants to enter your lane.

Give a genuine compliment to a family member, friend or colleague.

Do the same for your boss — they probably never get compliments!

Let go of a grudge and tell that person you forgive them (unless telling them makes it worse).

Be there for a friend having a tough time. Don’t try to fix it; just listen.

Leave your mail carrier a thank-you note.

Overtip your delivery person.

Just a few suggestions to brighten someone’s day!