“Be kind” – It’s something we tell our children, ourselves, and our community. We see it artfully scripted on notebook covers, graffitied on city buildings, and posted on social media.

The idea of being kind is so popular because kindness makes a real positive difference. During the Coronavirus outbreak, which is causing stress for many, it’s even more impactful to reflect on how we can be kinder to ourselves and others.

Have you ever noticed how much better you treat your family when you practice self-care? Kindness starts with being kind to yourself.  In times of stress, it’s important to breathe, list our needs, and pursue them (Alone time? A good night’s sleep, anyone?). Remember to forgive yourself when you make mistakes, which happens for everyone. During this pandemic, you may not always be the calm, collected parent you strive to be – that’s okay. Tomorrow is a new day.

Being kind to others is not only advisable; it’s supported by science. According to the Mayo Clinic Health System, being kind lights up the brain’s reward centers and releases serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins resulting in feelings of pleasure, happiness, and increased energy. Being kind benefits everyone involved, and it feels good (sign me up!).

We could all use a little extra kindness during the Coronavirus outbreak. Talk about how to spread kindness as a family. Have a brainstorming session. To get you started, here are some ways to be kind in the coming weeks.

To yourself:

• Cook your favorite meal
• Get some fresh air
• Forgive yourself when you make mistakes
• Practice positive self-talk (ex. “I am enough”)

To others:

• Call or Facetime a friend or family member
• Send homemade cards in the mail
• Donate to a local food bank
• Deliver dinner/groceries to a neighbor in need
• Share a positive, inspirational message on social media

Being kind, to yourselves and others, will help your family stay positive while making your home, and the world, a little brighter. Below are some more ways your family can come together.

GAME:

Four Corners

Materials:

Four pieces of paper labeled 1-4

A list of questions with four possible answers

Tape

Directions:

1. Tape the papers labeled 1-4 in each corner of the room (one per corner)
2. Ask a question, assigning one answer to each corner of the room.
3. Players should go to the corner that corresponds with their answer

Question examples:

• What’s the best vacation? a) beach b) camping c) amusement park d) big city
• Which is the best holiday? a) Christmas b) Birthday c) Thanksgiving d) Halloween

 

 

RECIPE:

3-Ingredient Berry Smoothie

Ingredients:

1 frozen banana

1 ½ cup frozen berries

¼ cup of water or milk

Toppings (optional)

Directions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth
2. Serve in a bowl and top with chopped fruit, granola, etc. Enjoy!

*To find recipes using ingredients you have at home, visit Fridgetotable.com

CRAFT:

Homemade Bubbles 

Directions:

Get a large cup. Pour 1/2 cup of dish soap into the cup. Add 1 1/2 cups of water.

Measure 2 teaspoons of sugar and add it to the water/soap mixture. Gently stir your mixture.Go outside and blow bubbles!

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY:

Yoga

Give it a try! There are many videos online/on YouTube. You can also try the tree pose: Stand with your arms at your sides. Shift your weight to your left foot. Use your hand to draw your right foot alongside your inner left thigh. Press your palms together in prayer position at your chest. Fix your gaze gently on one, unmoving point in front of you and balance.

CONVERSATION STARTER: “If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would you choose?”

 

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/the-art-of-kindness

http://education.ohio.gov/Topics/Other-Resources/News/Know-To-Put-Kindness-into-Action