Dear YouAligned Community,

There’s a famous motto here in Tucson, Arizona where I call home: Be Kind. All over town, the words Be Kind are emblazoned on walls, murals, bumper stickers and art. The Be Kind mission is simple: To inspire people to practice kindness as a way of life. By valuing and practicing intentional kindness, we can change the world.

It reminds me of this quote by cartoonist Scott Adams: “Remember, there’s no such thing as a small act of kindness. Every act creates a ripple with no logical end.”

Science backs this up: studies show that engaging in acts of kindness increases serotonin, reduces stress, and improves overall well-being. It reminds us that we are not powerless – we can choose how we show up and what we focus our energy on. We lead by example and that creates ripples.

YouAligned was founded on a heart-centered belief: that true wellness includes how we care for ourselves and the world around us (that’s why every YouAligned class supports reforestation and food security in communities that need it most). When we care for ourselves, we’re better able to care for our communities. We create the space to act with clarity, compassion, courage, and kindness.

So here’s your July invitation: start your own ripple by taking one small, kind, aligned action weekly, daily, or simply when it feels right.

What exactly is an aligned action? Aligned action is a choice that reflects your core values, supports your well-being, and contributes to something greater than yourself. It’s about taking steps – big or small – that feel true to who you are and aligned with the kind of world you want to help create. I’m talking about choices that reflect your values and uplift others while also supporting your own mental health, energy, and sense of purpose.

Whether you:

• When the opportunity arises, go out of your way to help a stranger
• Volunteer your time or skills to someone in need
• Support a cause you believe in with action, not just awareness
• Sign and share a petition that aligns with your values
• Donate to an animal rescue or adopt a pet
• Swap one single-use item for a sustainable alternative that fits your lifestyle
• Send a message of encouragement to someone who’s struggling

 
Begin a simple gratitude practice to ground yourself in what’s going well (an act of kindness towards yourself)
Each of these seemingly small acts are part of a much bigger mission. Let these acts uplift you. Let them ripple outward.

We don’t have to do it all – nor can we. But we can each do something – and I believe it’s our responsibility to, not out of pressure or guilt, but because our kind, aligned actions matter.

With love and aligned action,
Ashton August, Founder of YouAligned.com and YA Classes