ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews research documenting the physical and mental health benefits of a compassion-driven life. Consistent with research in this area, it discusses the benefits associated with four of the seven virtues of compassionate people: mindfulness, gratitude, kindness, and altruism. Research shows that compassion and these related virtues bring us happiness and pleasure, lower our stress levels, increase our connections with others, promote health and well-being, and may even help us live longer. Accordingly, the chapter closes by noting that compassion practice should be considered just as important as healthy eating, exercise, preventive screenings, and other routine practices for promoting and increasing our quality of life. Compassion practice should be regularly encouraged across virtually all social contexts, ranging from the family to schools, neighborhoods, the workplace, healthcare settings, and beyond.
