Be Well, Move Happy: Acts of Kindness and Cleaning

Monday, 26 August 2024 08:00

By Sara Whatley

In this month’s health column Sara Whatley looks at performing acts of kindness, and getting the most out of a cleaning workout

We are all so busy. Sometimes it feels that life is too rushed and we can easily get caught up in our own frantic bubble. But have you noticed that letting someone pull in front of you in a queue of traffic doesn’t actually slow your journey down? Taking the time to perform simple acts of kindness towards our fellow human beings not only brightens someone else’s day, but gifts you social, emotional and physical well being too.

And neatly bringing those threads together, where cleaning might be an act of kindness, and combining it with a workout is perfect for the time poor, get inspired to boss your house clean and your body simultaneously!

WELLNESS: ACTS OF KINDNESS

Acting kindly towards others actually starts with acting kindly towards yourself. Sometimes we speak to ourselves in a way we would never dream of using with others – berating, shaming and bullying. If we wouldn’t treat others with such hostility then why do it to yourself?

Learning how to speak kindly to yourself will help you then pass that kindness onto others, and performing kind acts towards yourself will equally cultivate that kindness to others as well. Listen to your body and try to rest when it is tired. Talk to friends about your worries, and treat yourself to the odd luxury.

Now, what acts of kindness can you pass on to others, and why? Reaching out to others with kindness can help us to feel less isolated, forge connection and open new opportunities. It can put the world into perspective, and make it a happier place. Here are a few ideas to get you started, but really the list is endless.

• Childminding or dog walking
• Giving someone a smile or flowers

• Paying compliments
• Helping with household chores
• Shopping for a friend or neighbour • Donating to charity
• Buying a coffee for the person behind you in the queue
• Putting the neighbour’s bin back

MOVEMENT: CLEANING

Love it or hate it, the cleaning must be done. Perhaps you have offered to clean for someone else in an act of kindness, or you are looking after your family by keeping the house clean. However you have come to your cleaning, let’s think about the benefits it has not only to your home, but to your health as well.

Cleaning is hard work! It often involves all sorts of bending and stretching, pushing and pulling, and lifting and reaching. It is a workout anyway, but for those wanting to really feel the burn there are a few things to remember to get the most out of your efforts.

Be Well, Move Happy: Acts of Kindness and Cleaning

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