• Start a kindness revolution in February

RED WING, Minn. ― Mayo Clinic Health System is hosting Kickstart Kindness, a virtual program designed to start a kindness revolution. The program is free and self-guided.

"Kindness has been shown to increase self-esteem, empathy and compassion, and improve mood," says Steven Siegle, Psy.D., a psychotherapist at Mayo Clinic Health System in Menomonie, Wisconsin. "It can decrease blood pressure, and cortisol, a stress hormone, which directly impacts stress levels. People who give of themselves in a balanced way also tend to be healthier and live longer."

By simply being kind, and being happier and healthier, participants can initiate a ripple effect that can affect their entire community.

This program is appropriate for all ages. Registration is required. Visit the Mayo Clinic Health System website to sign up, print activity ideas and get resources about kindness.

###

About Mayo Clinic Health System

Mayo Clinic Health System consists of clinics, hospitals and other facilities that serve the health care needs of people in Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin. The community-based providers, paired with the resources and expertise of Mayo Clinic, enable patients in the region to receive highest-quality physical and virtual health care close to home.

Media contact: