Wednesday, June 18
- Scripture: Galatians 6:7–9 – “A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.”
- Reflection: Our actions are like seeds—what we sow determines our harvest. When we sow positive experiences such as compassion, kindness, and love, they generate mental, emotional and physical benefits. They also have a communal ripple effect, triggering more people to behave similarly. See below.
The ‘Be Kind People Project’ documents positive benefits of such an approach to life (full article: https://thebekindpeopleproject.org/blog/2024/11/13/the-science-of-kindness/#:~:text=When%20someone%20is%20kind%20to,effect%20of%20kindness%20in%20communities):
- How Kindness Affects Our Brains — When we engage in acts of kindness, the brain undergoes noticeable changes … kindness activates the brain’s reward center, specifically the release of dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter. This rush of dopamine gives us a natural “helper’s high,” making us feel happier and more fulfilled … kindness is linked to the release of oxytocin … associated with bonding and trust, and its release makes us feel more connected to others. This effect is one reason why acts of kindness can bring people closer together, fostering social cohesion and support. …
- The Physical Benefits of Being Kind — Kindness … has tangible physical benefits … kindness can lower blood pressure … our bodies produce more oxytocin, which helps dilate blood vessels and lower blood pressure, promoting cardiovascular health … According to … psychiatrist, Dr. Bhawani Ballamudi, the release of oxytocin caused by participating in acts of kindness can “decrease blood pressure and cortisol, a stress hormone, which directly impacts stress levels.” …
- Kindness and Mental Health: A Path to Happiness — The mental health benefits of kindness are profound … boosts mood and increases overall life satisfaction … reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety… researchers found that being kind to ourselves or to anyone else boosted … feelings of happiness. One key reason for these mental health benefits is that acts of kindness often lead to positive social interactions, which play a critical role in mental well-being …
- The Ripple Effect: How Kindness Spreads — … kindness … has a ripple effect that extends throughout social networks and communities. … When we see someone being kind, we are more likely to pay it forward and engage in kind acts ourselves … can transform entire communities, creating a culture of kindness and empathy that benefits everyone involved. This contagious nature of kindness has been documented in studies on social networks. According to research, if someone in a network observes a kind act, they are more likely to perform a similar act, creating a chain reaction of kindness that spreads far beyond the original act …
- Spiritual Practice Prompt: Perform one act of kindness or compassion today.
Song:
- He Is by Heather Headley: https://youtu.be/RezZXNLih2E?si=rdo-w3EGUKgPxJV-
- Hold On by Alabama Shakes: https://youtu.be/Le-3MIBxQTw?si=XzVh0g2K3QL6uaTJ
Kindness is ever the begetter of kindness. — Sophocles
June 18 Daily Devotional