Seven Science-backed Superpowers of Kindness
One little gesture can make a world of difference. Don’t believe us? We’ll let the science speak for itself.
Give Yourself a “Helper’s High”
When you do something kind, your body releases endogenous opioids (like natural morphine), causing increased levels of dopamine in the brain (Hamilton, 2011).
Pulmonary Powers
The “warm-and-fuzzy” feelings that accompany kind acts? They actually produce a hormone called oxytocin, a product of which expands the blood vessels, reducing blood pressure (Hamilton, 2011).
The Hottest Anti-Aging Secret
Oxytocin’s effects can also slow the aging process (and decrease the risk of heart disease, as an added bonus). Scientific studies also suggest a strong correlation between kindness and the vagus nerve, which controls heart rate and inflammation in the body (Hamilton, 2011).
Optimize Your Mind
Studies have shown that practicing gratitude, thankfulness, or inner kindness improves your sleep, reduces fatigue and depression, and enhances your confidence. (Mayo Clinic 2018).
Toughen Up
A recent (2019) study showed that people who financially supported a charitable cause were less susceptible to the pain of electric shocks (administered to healthy patients), as well as chronic pain suffered by cancer patients (Wang, 2020).
Awaken Ancient Instincts
Biologically, humans crave strong connections with one another, as far back as prehistory. Our species survived thanks to our ability to work together. The desire for personal relationships is in our DNA (Hamilton, 2011).
Pass Your Powers On
When you make someone else feel good, they get to experience an oxytocin-release, too. That means you both get the anti-aging effects, blood pressure benefits and good feelings that come with kindness (Mayo Clinic 2018).