Why We Practice Compassion?

Scientific research into the measurable benefits of compassion is young. Preliminary findings suggest, however, that being compassionate can improve health, well-being, and relationships. Many scientists believe that compassion may even be vital to the survival of our species, and they’re finding that its advantages can be increased through targeted exercises and practice. Here are some of the most exciting findings from this research so far.

• Showing compassion activates pleasure circuits in the brain
• Being kind and loving to others can reduce the risk of heart disease
• Studies have shown that people who are Compassionate become more resistant to stress
  Practicing compassion can improve our mental health
• Compassionate people are more optimistic and supportive when communicating with others
• Compassion helps make better parents
• When someone sets the goal of compassion in a friendship both people have greater satisfaction and growth in the relationship
  medical students who train in compassion feel less depressed and lonely, and avoid the typical declines in compassion

  Read the entire article here: https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/compassion/definition#why-practice