Probably more than ever we all need to observe World Kindness Day.

In light of recent events, observing the international holiday of World Kindness Day celebrated on November 13 this year seems most appropriate. The first World Kindness Day was organized by a collection of humanitarian groups in 1997 by a “Declaration of Kindness.” It’s a global 24-hour celebration dedicated to paying-it-forward and focusing on the good in the world, which is a concept that we are all in need of more than ever this year.

On Kindness Day everyone is encouraged to make a declaration of kindness and devote themselves to completing acts of kindness. From donating food to the local food bank to opening the door for someone struggling with packages, there are many ways to celebrate the day. The goal of World Kindness Day is to highlight good deeds and focus on the power of positivity in our lives and the world. Kindness can be shared amongst friends, neighbors, lovers, and even complete strangers. Kindness transcends religion, race, age, gender, nationality, and politics. The act of practicing compassion is needed now more than ever, and ideally, the intention to practice kindness will transfer to the others days of your life.

Practicing kindness doesn’t have to be complicated. It can begin with a simple act that breeds another. Here’s some inspiration to get you started.

1. Smile. Research has shown that the simple act of smiling at strangers is good for you and the stranger. It’s a way to help someone feel connected, which is a necessity for good mental and emotional health.

2. Say a kind word. Sometimes all that’s needed to turn someone’s day around is a kind word. Whether you let your coworker know that you appreciated their help on that project or you tell your significant other how lovely they look, it just might help to make their day better.

3. Listen. We are all too quick to get in our two cents. Sit back and listen for a change. You might learn something new about someone and help them feel special and validated.

4. Give your time. Lest you think World Kindness Day is about donating money, think again. The most valuable gift you can give is your time, whether to a neighbor in need of some lawn work help or by donating your time to a local non-profit.

5. Remember your manners. Please and thank you matter and remembering to use them goes a long way. Thank you very much.

6. Pass on the gossip. We all are tempted to participate in gossip, but gossiping hurts all involved. Take a pass on the gossiping and instead, think of something kind to say.

7. Reach out. Often the closest people in our lives are the ones we take for granted the most. Call, text, email, or visit loved ones you haven’t reached out to in a while.

In closing, remember these choice words from the Dalai Lama:

“When we feel love and kindness toward others, it not only makes others feel loved and cared for, but it helps us also to develop inner happiness and peace.”

Related on EcoSalon

The Evolution of Kindness: Can Being the ‘Nice Guy’ Save the Planet?
Here’s How to Forgive and Let Go of Resentment
4 Ways to Have Good Manners in This Mannerless World

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A smile is the universal sign for happiness. It makes you feel good and it spreads that joy to everyone around you. Even when you’re in a funk, a smile really can turn the tide. Let the world know that you’re happy with a smile. Here are 7 reasons to say cheese:

1. Smiling makes you feel better.

Smiling can make you feel happy even when you’re not. Smiling actually sends a message to your brain that you’re happy, which pumps you up with endorphins. Endorphins are neurotransmitters that send messages from one neuron to the next, producing a feeling of well being. A 1984 article in the journal Science found that people mimic their emotional expressions and their bodies produce physiological changes that reflect that emotion. And it goes both ways–if you want to feel crappy, frowning will get the job done.

2. Your smile is contagious.

Just like your smile makes you feel better, it makes those around you feel better as well. Smiling is contagious and it spreads an uplifting feeling from one person to the next.

3. It makes you more attractive.

Smiling makes you more attractive because people tend to look their best when they’re happiest. According to the American Academy of Dentistry, 96 percent of adult Americans believe an attractive smile makes people more appealing to the opposite sex.

4. It makes you laugh.

We humans have a bad habit of taking ourselves way too seriously. In those times when you’re forgetting that life should be fun, crack a smile. It will remind you to relax and ride the waves of life with ease.

5. Notice the everyday joys.

Sometimes you just need to smile at life’s everyday joys. Smile at the beauty of the world you’re lucky enough to live in each and everyday. Your smile is a reminder to be mindful and grateful.

6. It boosts immune health.

When you smile you’re more relaxed which contributes to good health and a stronger immune system. Stress in the body reduces the ability of the immune system to fight disease, that’s why we get physically ill. So consider cracking a smile even when you feel stress creeping up in your life.

7. It makes you more confident.

Sometimes it can be harder to be nice than it is to be mean. If you notice the cashier being rude to the customer in front of you, instead of continuing the nastiness, crack a smile and notice the negativity lift from the room. Sometimes we don’t smile because we fear rejection but when we do smile, those around us can feel that inner confidence. Confidence makes you more successful and better able to get what you want out of life.

Related on EcoSalon:
A Smile a Day Keeps the Doctor Away
An Orgasm a Day Keeps the Doctor Away
You Are Centerstage

Image: mihhailov

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