10 simple ways to spread kindness in your street

• Help someone to get the groceries out of their car.
• Have a baking session and share the delicious goodies with the people in your street (remember to list all the ingredients in case of food allergies).
• Offer to mow your neighbour’s lawn.
• Give someone a book that you have read and enjoyed.
• Leave a bowl of water the end of your driveway for any dogs being walked in your street.
• Take cuttings from your garden, pot them up and share around your neighbours.
• Cook a meal for a neighbour – this could be a family with a new baby or an elderly person who needs a helping hand (make sure you include a list of ingredients).
• Smile at everyone you see and say hello.
• If you walk past a beautiful garden, leave a note telling the owner how lovely it is and thank them for brightening your day.
• Bring in a neighbour’s bin after rubbish collection.

4 unexpected side-effects of being kind

Kindness begins when you do something good for someone without expecting anything in return; but there are also many unintended benefits for the person being kind.

1. Practising kindness helps your body to release a chemical that is good for your heart health. It can also reduce stress and anxiety and improve your mood.
2. Kindness strengthens relationships and boosts emotional well-being.
3. It’s contagious! People who witness acts of kindness are more likely to try it themselves.
4. Being kind can boost self-esteem.

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