Whether you believe in karma or not, it’s a fact that random acts of kindness can boost your happiness levels. In a university study, a group of people were asked to perform at least six acts of kindness a week and found that not only did their mood improve but they also became more satisfied with their relationships. Other research suggests that kindness is contagious; people on the receiving end of a kind act are more likely to help others. Take the Random Act of Kindness challenge and bring a little kindness therapy into your week with these simple ideas:

• Hold the door open for people – a simple yet greatly appreciated gesture. 

• Let someone go ahead of you in a line at the grocery store, coffee shop or train station.

• Give up your seat on the bus to allow others to sit down.

• Offer to pay for the coffees when you meet a friend or bring a coffee back for a coworker who is working through lunch. If you feel extra kind, offer to pay for the coffee for the person standing behind you in line.

• Pick up a piece of litter on your street- a cleaner neighborhood makes everyone feel brighter and is kind to the environment as well.

• Practice road love rather than rage: let a driver into your lane, or wave them into that parking space you had your eye on.

• Do a chore that you know your partner or family member hates.

• Surprise a friend with a plant or fresh flowers.

We would love to hear about your random acts of kindness. Please share your stories with us by emailing blog@shophyggebox.com for the chance to be featured on our blog.