Sometimes I’m baffled by science in America and headlines that read, “Research Shows…”  Really, they had to do a study and spend money on research to draw that conclusion?
“Research Shows Banging Your Head Against the Wall May Cause Headache.”
I wonder how many thousands of dollars were wasted on that one.

Besides the fact that I already know from very personal experience that doing good makes us feel good, I was pleased to read that research spent some money on this to prove it to the world!

Priya Advani: How Random Acts of Kindness Can Benefit Your Health.

“…acts of kindness create an emotional warmth, which releases a hormone known as oxytocin. Oxytocin causes the release of a chemical called nitric oxide, which dilates the blood vessels. This reduces blood pressure and, therefore, oxytocin is known as a “cardioprotective” hormone. It protects the heart by lowering blood pressure.”

Oxytocin is my favorite neurotransmitter.

And my favorite part of this article:

Monica Advani, the director and owner of the Global Montessori Preschool in Westwood, teaches kindness to her children beginning at a very young age. Whenever she notices one child doing a random act of kindness to another, she writes it in the kindness book. During line time, she will read it and thank those children involved with the positive action. She says, “this motivates and inspires other children to do the same.”

While I have always known and lived by the philosophy that “the more you give, the more you get,” it’s nice to know that the great scientific ‘powers that be’ are backing me up on this one.  Simply said, though, it just feels good to do good.  Blessing others blesses me.  And not just when children are concerned, doing good motivates and inspires others.  This is what makes the world worthwhile, even if it is just holding the door for someone else, or passing along a smile.

Do good today.