Leonardo da Vinci loved animals so much that he used to buy caged animals at the market just to set them free. To reach a great height a person like him needs to have great depth in  kindness. Kindness means being forgiving, grateful, humble, and honoring others. A kind person shows concern for others' feelings and treats others as we would like to be treated.

The research on kindness is increasing. But, is kindness a must for happiness? Is it related to health? Being kind is often linked to happiness, wellbeing and life satisfaction.

Kindness boosts hormones like serotonin, and dopamine. These neurotransmitters promote satisfaction and well-being. Serotonin known as the 'happy chemical'  helps regulate our mood as well as our sleep, appetite, digestion and learning ability. This reduces stress and anxiety and gives us energy.

There are other vital hormones that are related to kindness, happiness and wellbeing, like Endorphins, our body's natural pain killer. Oxytocin is also a powerful hormone that functions as a neurotransmitter in the brain. The "love hormone" is essential for childbirth, breastfeeding, and strong parent-child bonding. Sometimes it is called the 'kindness hormone' or 'cardio-protective hormone'. When we commit an act of kindness our bodies release nitric oxide, which opens blood vessels and lowers blood pressure, keeping our hearts healthier. . 

Kindness is misunderstood as weakness.  kindness says everything about oneself. It is contiguous and can make everyone happier.

E-mail: rubaiulmurshed@shomman.org