A few months ago I needed to call Sainsburys as the internet delivery was sent with around £30 of undelivered (but charged for) food. A few bags must have not made it too our door.
I always aproach these calls with a calm and polite demeanour and, most importantly, with a smile in my voice. Yes, there were groceries missing, but no point getting my knickers in a twist about it. I spoke with a friendly chap who helped sort out the problem and refund the money. We had a little chat while we waited for his computer to do stuff and it was a pleasant interaction.
During the call I could not help thinking about help desk people who must get some irate callers. I realised this chap sounded glad to be dealing with someone polite and I hung up the phone feeling incredibly happy. I was happy that I’d handled the call the way in which I did. I was happy that he sounded happy and that I’d made it pleasant. Being nice to him made me feel good. I had a pretty big smile on my face and a lot of warmth in my heart for a while after.
This post has been in my drafts box for a while. I have not found the time to finish writing it and on Wednesday it became clear why.
I received a newsletter from Dr David Hamilton, whom I saw speak a few months ago in Bath. He is inspiring and his work and knowledge are fantastic! Below is the newsletter and it’s self explanatory why I felt so good after that call. (Check out all the mind expanding articles on his site)
Why Kindness is Good for You
Did you know that when you are kind to someone it actually benefits your health? New scientific studies show that kindness, and also compassion and gratitude, produce chemicals in the brain that impact the body. One of these chemicals is a neuropeptide known as oxytocin.
Recent research shows that oxytocin is cardioprotective. Know what that means? It means that it protects the heart from damage. In other words, when you’re kind to someone you are actually doing your heart some good.
Many studies have shown that a kind nature reduces the chances of your arteries becoming hard-what is known as atherosclerosis. A 2008 scientific study investigated the process of atherosclerosis and actually found that oxytocin-the chemical produced when you’re kind to someone-halted it in its tracks.
Kindness, gratitude and compassion also impact the brain. A few good deeds here and there actually cause structural changes to the brain in a beneficial way.
So not only do the people we’re kind to benefit from our good deeds, but we benefit too. It has been said that you get back what you give out. Well, a host of recent scientific research is now showing the physiological truth in this.
This is a snapshot of some of the material from my new book, Why Kindness is Good for You (available from Hay House UK, 1st Feb 2010). I’m also speaking on it in Birmingham on Sunday 8th November. Come along if you want to learn more.
This article will soon be archived on my website feel free to visit the site to read other interesting articles in the health and mind-body field.
Please feel free to share this article with others.
