Kindness, A Force That Breaks Down Any Wall

At present, it seems that kindness is in danger of extinction, especially in the big cities. This has an anthropological explanation, since large population concentrations generate greater tensions and promote impersonal treatment. In fact, it is one of those factors that hinders psychological and emotional health in those spaces.

There are many places where, for example, greeting the neighbor is something strange. It is assumed as a waste of time, or unnecessary flattery. Each one goes to his own. In this type of place , the gestures of kindness from others are not valued, being more likely that the people who live there develop problems related to anxiety, depression or difficulties to cope with life with a good attitude.

Even within the same families , these affectionate gestures are sometimes lost, due to daily treatment and overconfidence. Now, expressions of kindness are not a luxury, but a lifestyle that is imprinted on relationships with others. They nurture positive emotions and protect us from negative ones.

The kindness gene

Science has shown that we all come into the world with a built-in kindness gene. In other words, we are a species that needs others to survive and we have the biological brand of it. Altruism and cooperation have been decisive for the human being to have evolved.

Some studies show that from 6 months, children already express friendly behaviors towards others. They make choices between closing themselves off or opening up to others. They often choose to interact and be generous with others. They are also very receptive to expressions of kindness.

Therefore, it is natural for us to be nice to others. Unkindness is the result of a civilization that promotes individualism to the extreme. We go against our inner heart when we see others as perfect strangers who have nothing to do with us.

Kindness is a strength

Kindness is a highly elaborate attitude. It implies self-control, self-confidence, empathy, appreciation of others and awareness regarding the relationship between the individual and the group. It is also a huge force in social relationships. Much more is gained by being kind than by being indolent or dry in your dealings.

A kind person is someone with developed emotional intelligence. It is one of those attitudes that are contagious. The usual thing is that someone kind generates kindness and goodwill around him. This is an excellent way to prevent conflicts, or to prevent them from taking on large dimensions.

Kindness promotes good character. It involves expressing affection and consideration for others, without neglecting ourselves. It is an attitude capable of calming someone who is angry and comforting someone who is sad. For something kindness is a word that comes from the Latin amabilis , which means: worthy of being loved.

The benefits of kindness

If we start from the fact that we are social beings and naturally predisposed to cooperate with others, then what is involved is not learning to be kind, but unlearning hostility or indifference behaviors. It’s worth it.

The benefits of kindness are enormous. These are some of them:

• Protects physical health. A kind person has fewer conflicts with others and with the world. This, in brain terms, means less cortisol production and more oxytocin (the “happiness” hormone) available.
• Preserves mental health. Being kind to another stabilizes our mood and prevents states of stress and anxiety. Acts of kindness make us feel better about ourselves. They make us more secure and confident.

• Contribute to good social relationships. Kindness takes us out of self-absorption and helps us connect with others. Nurture environments to be more collaborative and welcoming. It helps everything to flow properly.
• It is a protection mechanism against the “bad vibes” of others. Kindness has the power to defuse negative attitudes in others. To that extent, it is a barrier and an effective response against aggression and rejection.

Before finishing, it is important to make a clarification. Being kind is not being servile. Nor get used to “turning the other cheek.” Rather, it is about a style of behavior and communication, which reaffirms the person taking care not to step over anyone, or to be insensitive to others.