The Biology of Kindness: How It Makes You Happier and Healthier, study finds

Did you know that kindness has scientifically been proven to raise the spirits of everyone that witnesses the act?

The research shows that tiny act of kindness don’t go unnoticed. A new study in the journal Emotion found that when co-workers are nice to each other, it improves everyone’s attitude in the workplace.

In this engaging post by Amy Poehler, she recounts a random act of kindness that changed her entire day. She then goes on to explain exactly how kindness has a contagious effect that can be both observed and measured biologically.

So the next time you’re having a rough day, do something nice for someone… just because.

Looking for ideas when it comes to practicing random acts of kindness? Try one of these every day this month — I’d love to hear how it goes!

• Compliment at least one person every day.
• Pay it forward — pick up the tab for the person behind you in line, whether it’s at a coffee counter or waiting in line for the train.
• Surprise a loved one with a small but meaningful token of affection — a favorite bottle of wine, for example.
• Stop and help someone pick up heavy items or reach something on a high shelf.
• Bring goodies in for the whole office. Healthy treats let them know you care all that much more.
• Know someone that’s under a lot of pressure? Give them a gift card for takeout so they don’t have to worry about preparing a meal when they arrive home.
• Volunteer to spend time with an elderly person that has no one to visit them. Isolation can have negative effects on not only their mental but their physical health as well.
• Write notes to each of your family members telling them how much you love them. Leave them in unexpected places like a jacket pocket or on the bathroom mirror.
• Keep a handful of $5 restaurant gift cards with you. If you see someone that looks like they could use a meal, give them one.
• Open doors for strangers. A little courtesy goes a long way.
• On the topic of lonely seniors — get involved with Love for the Elderly — you’d be surprised how far a simple letter can go with someone that thinks they’re all alone.