38 - The Helper’s High: Exploring the Benefits of Kindness

Did you know that when you are kind to someone else, your own brain’s pleasure and reward center activates, as though you were the recipient of the good deed – not just the one offering kindness? This is referred to as the “helper’s high”. In this episode, Elizabeth Mintun explores the many physical and mental health benefits of practicing random acts of kindness. The research is astounding! Key Takeaways: Engaging in and witnessing acts of kindness stimulates the production of the feel-good hormones oxytocin and serotonin, which helps lift our mood and reduces stress. People who are regularly kind have 23% less cortisol (a stress hormone) in their bodies and live longer than people who are not regularly practicing acts of kindness. People who perform random acts of kindness report feeling stronger and more energetic, calmer and less depressed, and over all a greater sense of self-worth.Resources: https://www.thecalmingground.com/free-guided-meditationhttps://www.randomactsofkindness.org/the-science-of-kindness“I love Elizabeth and The Calming Ground Podcast.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! Your feedback on this platform helps me support more people - just like you - move toward the balanced life they desire. Scroll to the bottom, tape to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, remember to follow the podcast so you keep receiving the wisdom and insights of all of these amazing humans!