PLANTING SEEDS OF HOPE: HOW GOOD DEEDS CAN HELP RELIEVE STRESS & INSPIRE A BRIGHTER TOMORROW
By Shelley Whizin
ON BIG BLEND RADIO: This episode of Big Blend Radio’s SOUL DIVING SUNDAY Show with Shelley Whizin focuses on Planting Seeds of Hope. Watch here in the YouTube player or download the episode on Podbean.
April brings with it a powerful trio of reminders: it’s Stress Awareness Month, the Month of Hope, and home to Good Deeds Day on April 6. What do these have in common? They each invite us to pause, breathe, and take action—however small—that nourishes our minds, hearts, and communities. When stress threatens to consume us, one of the most impactful things we can do is plant a seed—literally or metaphorically—and watch something beautiful grow.
Stress is a silent saboteur. It creeps into our lives, erodes our health, damages relationships, clouds our thinking, and steals joy. But here’s the good news: one of the best ways to push back against stress is through meaningful action. Doing good deeds, even simple ones, creates a sense of purpose, connection, and hope. And hope is a natural stress antidote.
Like springtime itself, hope reminds us that something new is always possible. When we plant seeds—whether they’re in the soil or someone’s heart—we say yes to life, healing, and growth.
Here are five heartwarming, hope-filled actions you can take this April to reduce stress and plant the seeds of something better:
Plant Something (Even a Windowsill Herb!) There’s magic in putting your hands in the soil. Gardening connects us with nature, grounds us in the present moment, and reminds us that growth takes time—and care. Start small. Basil, mint, or cherry tomatoes can spark joy and offer daily reminders of life’s resilience.
Bake Something Sweet for Someone Else – Cooking or baking for someone is a gesture of love—and a calming ritual. The act of mixing, measuring, and gifting something homemade can lower cortisol levels and elevate moods. Deliver a treat to a neighbor or surprise a friend. It’s a win-win: kindness delivered – connection deepened.
Write a Note of Gratitude or Encouragement – When we focus on what we’re grateful for, stress begins to lose its grip. Take five minutes to write a thank-you card, a love note, or a message of hope. You never know how deeply your words might touch someone—and the ripple effect that might follow.
Take a “Hope Walk” and Pick Up Litter – Walk with intention. Let it be a meditation, a prayer, or a moment of quiet. While you’re out, bring a bag and pick up some trash. Doing good for the earth is a grounding act that shifts your focus outward and creates an instant sense of accomplishment.
Start a “Good Deed Jar” – Place a jar on your counter and every time you do a good deed, drop in a note. Watch your jar fill up with proof that your presence matters. Seeing your kindness grow will inspire you (and others) to keep going, especially on hard days.
Remember: stress may be part of life, but it doesn’t have to define it. Every good deed is a seed of hope. Let April be your invitation to plant more, love more, and breathe a little easier—one action at a time.
Shelley Whizin is a transformational life coach and the founder and CEO of the Soul Diving Institute™ (SDI), established to study and teach the art and science of Being Human. She’s also the author of “The Healing Journal”, “The Story of the Magical Baby Grand Piano”, and “What Do You Bring to the Table? A Savory, Sensory and Inspirational Guide to Living a Yummy Delicious Life”. More at www.ShelleyWhizin.com
