Doing good things for others does more for our minds and bodies than you may realize. In the spirit of this month’s cover article on the value of kindness, I recently conducted research into how we are psychologically affected when we perform good deeds for others. What I uncovered was astounding, and it provided further proof that we should all do our part to make the world a more caring and compassionate place. According to the Mayo Clinic, focusing on kindness can decrease the production of the stress hormone cortisol and lower our blood pressure. Additionally, showing kindness to those around us has been shown to reduce feelings of loneliness, improve our mood, and strengthen our interpersonal relationships. Perhaps most significantly, being kind boosts our levels of serotonin and dopamine. These neurotransmitters contribute to our well-being and fulfillment, stimulating the reward and pleasure centers of our brain. We may also experience positive physical sensations, as endorphins, which act as natural painkillers, can be released when we perform kind acts. As reported by the American Psychiatric Association, research shows that individuals with a history of anxiety and depression experienced notable dips in episodes of both after engaging in acts of kindness and increasing their overall participation in social activities. With these THE PHYSIOLOGICAL PERKS OF KIND ACTS HELP OTHERS, HELP YOURSELF
participants, shifting attention away from their symptoms and focusing
on the happiness of others helped alleviate their feelings of sadness or nervousness. Kindness isn’t just a social goal we should strive to achieve in our everyday lives; it’s a scientifically proven way to help sustain our physical and mental health. The next time you’re out and about, be sure to hold the door for the person behind you, take an interest in how others are doing, and even “pay it forward” at the drive-thru. You may end up benefiting yourself as much as the person you’re helping.
Take a Break
KOREAN GROUND BEEF INGREDIENTS Sauce •
1/4 cup reduced- sodium soy sauce 1 tbsp honey, or a liquid sugar-free sweetener 1 tsp cornstarch 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
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DIRECTIONS 1.
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes. Set aside. 2. In a large skillet, heat avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook, stirring, until no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles as you cook, about 5 minutes. 3. Drain the beef and return it to the skillet. Add garlic and ginger and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. 4. Stir sauce into the beef, then cook for 2 more minutes, until heated through and the sauce thickens. 5. Off heat, drizzle the dish with sesame oil, sprinkle with sliced green onions, and serve over white rice (if desired).
Stir Fry •
2 tbsp avocado oil
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1 lb lean ground beef, 85/15 1 tbsp fresh garlic, minced 1 tbsp fresh ginger root, minced
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Finishing Touches • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil • 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
BOOTS CANDLES CARNATION FURNACE
GARNET HOCKEY INSULATE JANUS
OPPOSITE RESOLUTION
SKATING SWEATER
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