Kindness is far more than just a word.
Kindness represents a new vision for how we see ourselves, each other and the world.
Kindness is about reconnecting with our lives and treating our bodies, each other and the planet, not as “things” to be used, but precious ‘gifts’ to be cared for, respected and celebrated.
Encouragingly, you only have to look at what’s happening around the world to see trends towards this new vision of kindness…
- Greed is being challenged in widespread political and social movements
- Studies are showing the link between relentlessly pursuing money and the rise of depression & anxiety
- A growing movement of people want their work to be a place of wellbeing, compassion & contribution
- Scores of scientists are discovering an evidenced-based approach to compassion & generosity through compassionate mindfulness practices
WATCH this brilliant little video from inspirational autrhor and teacher Dr David Hamilton to FEEL what I mean
So how can you participate in this new vision of kindness?
1. Identify one thing you can do right now to promote your own 
basic kindness towards yourself. It could be setting up a new healthy routine such as eating what is good for you, being gentle on yourself, treating yourself to a spa treatment or joyful experience, change some negative habits, learn how to be calmer, choose to put your needs first now and again. Pick one thing and commit to it.
2. Choose one thing you can do right now to make someone’s day. It could be writing a thoughtful email or text message, 
apologising and saying sorry for something you feel you’ve done, using a Thank You Card call a family member or friend and ask how they are, commit to some charity work, buy a homeless person a hot drink and say hello. Sometimes it’s the smallest things that count.
3. Bring kindness into your workplace. You may think these ideas don’t have relevance in the “real world”, but there are tens of thousands of people who want to merge their work lives and inner values. Often we just need someone to lead the way.
4. Reconnect with the Natural World. So many people are now too busy to take time out from the “world of busy” and immerse themselves in nature and it’s taking a toll on both our physical and mental health. Commit to taking your lunch break in the park, or sat outdoors once or twice a 
week, get into the habit of walking instead of driving and notice how the natural world is all around us – even in busy cities. Invite nature into your home and place of work, grow seeds, open the window and listen to bird song instead of the radio or your headphones, go exploring woodland and natural landscapes on the weekend, or on summer evenings instead of watching TV. Remember we are a part of nature and living too long apart from it has negative consequences.
I know these ideas may be familiar, but if you’re like me you sometimes need a reminder, some support a little motivation and at times a big dose of inspiration…
If this article has helped remind, support, motivate and inspire you please share it with your networks and help me spread the message of CONNECTION
CONNECTION to yourself
CONNECTION to others
CONNECTION to the Natural World
Because when we CONNECT we CARE
Ian Banyard – Author & Guide
Ian Banyard is a Nature Connection Guide and author of Natural Mindfulness – your personal guide to the healing power of nature connection. He is passionate about exploring nature and empowering people. Ian combines a wealth of knowledge and experience from his personal and corporate life with intuitive and instinctive insights from his own inner journey, to guide others.
Ian lives in Gloucestershire, UK where he guides Natural Mindfulness Walks and provides coaching, courses, gatherings and retreats, for others who want to deepen their connection with nature and their true nature.
To attend a Natural Mindfulness Walk or event, visit Natural Mindfulness Walks
Want to experience Natural Mindfulness for yourself?
Book onto my Free online/offline 7 Day Programme as my guest
Natural Mindfulness – your personal guide to the healing power of nature connection, is AVAILABLE NOW.
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