Dear College of Education Community,
Self-care typically involves focusing on ourselves and our wellbeing. But appreciation and kindness for others in our lives can also contribute to improving our own mental health. Just as we feel when others express kindness to us, we can benefit when we share these same feelings toward others. “On a scientific level, it’s been shown that performing acts of kindness produces a rush of endorphins. This is the same chemical that floods our brains after exercise. Much like there’s a “runner’s high,” there is a The Helper's High, too,” states Natalie Buchwald, LMHC. “Showing up for others helps us feel at one with others. We feel part of something. We get out of our own heads. We feel our world and our heart expand a little. When we show up for others we transcend our little egoic selves. The act of service aligns us with the universal flow of energy and allows us to experience the interconnectedness of all things. We experience a sense of unity and oneness that transcends the individual self. This can bring us closer to our true nature. Doing something outside ourselves feels really good perhaps because we tap into a deeper truth that lies at the center of our being. Showing up for others is how we reclaim our future and change the world.”
For more information, see
For a list of other self-care options, you can also go to our COE self-care website for resources for faculty, staff, students, and the community at /eisner-education/self-care/articles-information-self-care
As we roll into the final weeks of the academic year, it’s our time to share our appreciation for our students, and for each other, our hard working and caring staff and our inspiring, talented, and committed colleagues, especially those who will be honored this week at our transitions and spring college celebration this Wednesday 12-2PM in 1214/1216.
Enjoy the high of appreciating others in the coming weeks!
Warmly,
Shari