Today is National Kindness Day.
Kindness is defined as the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate.
There are so many different ways to practice kindness. From helping out a stranger to being there for a friend in need. Kindness can make everyone’s lives better.
But being kind to yourself is often one kind of kindness that’s overlooked.
5 Simple ways to be kind to yourself today
Invest in yourself.
Take 15-30 minutes every day just for you. YES, you may be “busy” but you can take at least 15 minutes. Use this time to do something that uplifts you, whether it’s listening to a few of your favourite tracks, enjoying a cuppa and a magazine or watching an episode of your favourite program.
Be kind to others.
This may be a blog post about being kind to yourself but the way you think about and treat others is often the way you think about and treat yourself. So choose to be kinder towards others.
These only have to be small steps such as letting someone out at a junction or encouraging a friend to take a chance. Small steps make a big difference.
Eat Well.
Eating well and exercising is one of the best forms of self-kindness. I know that’s boring and trust me, I also know that it’s easier said than done a lot of the time but you’ll feel a lot better for it.
Go outside.
A few weeks ago I wrote about the wellness trend of forest bathing for a client. The act of going out into the forest, switching off your electronics and letting nature work its magic. The combination of fresh air, the silence and being switched off is good for your brain, body and soul. And if you don’t live near a forest, a walk in the park will be just as good. Try it.
Freshen Up.
If you’re feeling tired and worn out or if you work from home and you’re in that familiar work-from-home-funk – freshening up can make a massive difference.
Hop in the shower, use your favourite body wash, use that expensive moisturiser you’ve been saving, brush your teeth, fix your hair etc the simple act of freshening up will revitalise you.
What does kindness mean to you?
PS: My act of self-kindness today was to enjoy a cup of tea. Not just any old tea but Angel Kiss. I bought a bag from The Real Tea Company (a local business too – which is a double win) a few weeks back but haven’t had a chance to try it until today. It is SO good. It’s a blend of pineapple, passion fruit and strawberry so you can imagine how great it smells and tastes!
I saw it was kindness day today just been reading your post , eating well and health is mine but always end up doing stuff for other people first.
I love the idea of making time to be kind to yourself every day. I usually sit in my car for 15 minutes before work and listen to the radio.
I really need to take more time to be kind to myself. I’m always rushing around and never seem to put aside time for myself.
You’re so right about investing in yourself, you have to be a little selfish sometimes x
Oh this is just what I needed to read today! I’ve had a bad morning and really wanted to just comfort eat my way through it – just had a naked bar instead which has dealt with any real hunger but didn’t just fill me up with sugar. So important to be kind to yourself too!
A great way to remind ourselves to promote kindness both to ourselves and others and to aim to continue to do so throughout the year!
Kind is something it is so important to me to be, I hold it high above many other traits and I’m always seeking ways that I can help others and do something extra. Mich x
I certainly need to be kinder to myself – it’s something that I very rarely do! So, after reading this I am planning on changing that! Thanks!
I need to be kinder to myself especially with food as I have not been as healthy as I could be. Great tips
I think kindness is one of the most important traits a person can have. We could do with a little more in the world so thank you for the post.
I’m so good at being kind to others but when it comes to myself I never seem to make time. I must try and be a little selfish from time to time and take care of myself.
i love his post i often feel theres not enough kindness around i never intentionally go out to hurt anyone but always smile when walking past someone and i have just joined a group which will ensure i befriend someone i know whome may need a shoulder now and again