The expert reveals how kindness can boost physical health, strengthen the brain, and increase well-being
A simple “good morning,” a sincere compliment, or a helpful gesture can do much more than just improve someone’s day—it also transforms the mind and body of those who practice kindness. Science has already proven that being kind is an effective and natural way to take care of your mental health.
According to Dr. Mariana Ramos, professor of psychology at Afya Centro Universitário Itaperuna, the brain reacts immediately when we perform an act of kindness. “Kindness stimulates the release of substances such as dopamine and serotonin, which increases feelings of pleasure and well-being. It is as if the brain is rewarding us for doing good,” he explains.
According to the expert, every kind gesture generates a positive physiological response. “Every time we are kind, something silently happens inside us Nervous system“: The well-being circle is activated.” She highlights that this process goes beyond social interaction: “Being kind is not just a social act, but a psychobiological life choice.”
The effects of kindness on physical and mental health
Dr. Mariana Ramos explains that when we perform an act of kindness — such as offering help, listening to someone, praising them or even smiling — the brain interprets this as a positive stimulus for social connection.
“Areas such as the prefrontal cortex, responsible for empathy and moral decisions, and the limbic system associated with emotions are activated. This activation creates a feeling of inner warmth, pleasure and belonging, which can be seen even in the body, with lighter breathing, more relaxed muscles and a more stable heart rate,” he describes.
Furthermore, kindness spreads like a domino effect. He adds: “Kindness is contagious. When we notice an act of kindness, the brain activates reward areas, motivating us to repeat the behavior.”
Below, Dr. Mariana Ramos lists six reasons to practice kindness and explains how simple attitudes can transform well-being. check it out!
1. Kindness stimulates the secretion of feel-good hormones
When we are kind, our brain is freed DopamineSerotonin and oxytocin, which are substances associated with a sense of pleasure, happiness, and connection. This is why doing good deeds gives that good feeling of “lightness of heart.”
2. Reduces stress and anxiety
Acts of kindness help lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. In other words, being kind calms the body and mind, improves your mood, and helps you sleep better.
3. Strengthens social ties and sense of belonging
Being kind brings people together. small Positive attitudes It generates trust and reciprocity, making us feel more welcome and less alone, which is an important factor for mental health.
4. Improves self-esteem and life purpose
When we help someone, we feel useful and important. This boosts self-esteem, gives greater meaning to our actions and enhances the perception that we can make a positive impact on the world.
5. Increases emotional resilience
Kind people tend to deal better with frustrations and conflicts as they develop Empathy and compassion. These skills protect the mind from negative emotions, such as anger and resentment, and promote emotional balance.
6. Improves cardiovascular health
Practicing kindness brings direct benefits to the heart. Reducing stress and increasing the production of oxytocin, known as the “love hormone,” promotes vasodilation and helps regulate blood pressure, promoting blood circulation and protecting the cardiovascular system.
Additionally, people who cultivate kind attitudes report greater life satisfaction, fewer symptoms of anxiety and stress, and a lower incidence of heart disease, which contributes to increased longevity and overall well-being.
Written by Beatrice Felicio
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