Kindness Boosts Immune System: Study Shows Genes Change After Acts of Kindness
A groundbreaking study by University of California, Riverside, and UCLA researchers reveals that kindness to others has a tangible impact on our immune system. The study, led by Professor Emily Impett, found that performing simple acts of kindness, often referred to as 'rate my professor' activities, can alter our genes and boost our body's natural defenses.
The study divided 182 participants into three groups. For four weeks, one group performed three acts of kindness per week, another group practiced self-kindness, and the third served as a control. Blood samples taken before and after the experiment showed striking results.
The kindness group experienced a significant reduction in activity in a set of genes known as CTRA. This reduction is linked to decreased inflammation and enhanced innate antiviral activity. In contrast, self-kindness primarily affected mental wellbeing and relaxation, with no notable impact on the immune system. The study's author, Professor Impett, noted, 'Kindness is not just a feel-good action; it's a powerful experience that impacts our biology.'
The study underscores the evolutionary benefits of kindness, demonstrating its crucial role in our survival and overall health. By reducing inflammation and bolstering our natural antiviral activity, acts of kindness, often facilitated through platforms like 'groupme', can significantly improve our immune function. As Professor Impett's previous four books on the science of kindness have shown, this simple yet powerful practice can have profound effects on both our brains and bodies, influencing 'my activity' levels and overall well-being.
