Improve Your Health with Acts of Kindness

Kindness is a central mitzvah in the Torah and in the life of a believing Jew. "He has told you, O man, what is good. And what does Hashem require of you? Only to do justice and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God" (Micah 6, 8). Kindness, combined with Torah learning, has the power to build and sustain the world, as it is said: "The world is built on kindness" (Psalms 89, 3). "The world stands on three things: on Torah, on serving G-d, and on acts of kindness."

Nothing compares to the sense of satisfaction and joy that results from doing acts of kindness. Researchers have sought to examine whether there is an additional benefit beyond "positive emotions."

Indeed, many studies indicate that acts of kindness directly influence both our physical and mental health. Whether it's volunteering, helping a neighbor, or giving charity, each of these actions can lead to significant changes in both mood and overall health.

1. Improving Mood and Reducing Stress

Numerous studies show that acts of kindness can benefit physical and mental health. For example, a study published at the University of British Columbia found that people who perform acts of kindness report a decrease in blood pressure and an improvement in overall mood. The study showed that kindness enhances personal feelings of self-worth and reduces feelings of depression and anxiety.

Research from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that individuals who participate in volunteer work and acts of kindness experience lower levels of depression and a greater sense of meaning in life. The study indicated that these actions lead to an improvement in general well-being and a reduction in mental stress.

2. Enhancing Physical Health

Many studies have shown that acts of kindness can positively affect health, especially cardiovascular health and blood pressure. For instance, a study published at University Hospitals found that acts of kindness increase the production of oxytocin, a hormone that causes blood vessels to expand and reduces blood pressure. Oxytocin can improve cardiovascular health and helps in preventing heart disease.

Another study found that acts of kindness lead to a decrease in blood pressure and a general feeling of calmn and satisfaction. Such actions increase dopamine levels, considered a "natural antidepressant," and endorphins, which provide a similar sensation to what is experienced after physical exercise.

3. Increasing Overall Well-being

According to research conducted at the Harvard Business School and the University of British Columbia, people engaged in acts of kindness are happier and more connected to their community. Such feelings enhance their overall well-being, providing them with a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment.

Further studies indicate that acts of kindness contribute to a feeling of meaning, happiness, and connection to the community, also improving general well-being. A study published in the Journal of Social Psychology found that people who engaged in daily acts of kindness experienced a significant increase in life satisfaction and general happiness compared to those who did not perform such actions. The study also demonstrated that the positive effect of performing kindness persisted over time, leading to more acts of kindness.

In the religious and ultra-Orthodox sectors, acts of kindness are a central part of daily life. There are many charity organizations providing support and medical assistance to needy families as well as various "gemachs" offering interest-free loans, medical equipment, clothing, and household items. These organizations operate entirely on a voluntary basis, helping hundreds of needy families each year.

Beyond being a mitzvah and moral value, kindness is a powerful tool for improving our health and happiness: when we help others, we ultimately help ourselves. Next time you're contemplating a good deed, remember that the kindness you do today can improve your life too.

Have you noticed that performing acts of kindness has improved your life? Tell us in the comments.