Kindness During Lockdown
This has probably been the single most unsettling period of many of our lives. Life as we know it has changed, people are sick, afraid and alone; yet the thing that prevails and gives us hope through it all is the ability to be kind to one another. The quality of being friendly, generous and considerate. This is something the world can never have too much of, but especially now. Simple acts that take very little effort on our part, but can mean the world to those who receive it.
The one thing this pandemic has highlighted is that it has no preference- it is not aware of the barriers that divide our society. We truly are in this together. This can be anything from offering to get shopping for those who are unable to, sending a joke to a loved one, or donating to the numerous charities working hard to try and ensure people are looked after during this lockdown period. It is heart-warming to see rainbows and messages of appreciation for our NHS in the windows of our neighbours.
The truth is we never really know what is going on in someone else’s life- we can only relate to something from our own frame of reference. But to try to put ourselves in someone else’s shoes is a uniquely human trait.
If not for others, being ‘kind’ actually benefits us- as the release of Oxytocin occurs which floods our brains with the ‘feel-good’ chemical. Oxytocin is also released when we’re physically intimate. It’s tied to making us more trusting, more generous, and friendlier, while also lowering our blood pressure.
Behind closed doors are so many different scenarios: the stressed-out, working from home mum who has to manage children and conference calls, the manager worried how to pay his staff, the independent business currently out of work. If you have supplies, and some time, why not spread some love by cooking an extra meal. Try to leave this on the doorstep to prevent any contact.
During times of isolation, our goals can feel much more difficult. Why not offer yourself as an accountability partner who can check in to ensure your friend meets their daily goals – whether that’s a yoga workout, going to bed early or even remembering to stop work for lunch. Checking in shouldn’t be face-to-face during these isolation days, a simple daily text shows you are consistently thinking of someone from afar.
A huge thanks to our NHS workers who have been working tirelessly and selflessly to make sure we are all as healthy and happy as we can be. Remember, kindness is the glue that holds us all together and we can’t have too much of it right now.
If you would like to discuss anything relating to this article, please contact Elle Stacey at [email protected]