Giving Back
Giving to others benefits those in need, and it turns out to be good for you, too.
When you can make a big difference with a small donation or effort, the support you give helps everyone exponentially. There is more than just the “good vibe” or karma behind giving, there is research and data to prove it.
Mentally, emotionally and physically we benefit from helping others and our overall health gets a boost in various ways. Brain chemicals Serotonin that regulates our mood, Dopamine which relates to pleasure and Oxytocin that deepens our connection to others are secreted when we are helping. We feel more joyful, engaged and present. While we are usually not seeking these rewards when giving back, we do also reap the benefits.
Giving is a way to extend our lifespan, with science showing that those that volunteer live longer than those that do not. Our stress and blood pressure are usually lowered when we are helping, keeping levels of cortisol (our stress hormone) at bay so we feel less anxiety. Giving in the form of gifts, time, and energy helps us feel less overwhelmed when our brain’s mesolimbic pathway (reward center) is stimulated, even releasing endorphins. That dose of what is called “helpers high” gives us a stronger sense of self, confidence and happiness. It is even known to fight feelings of depression.
Helping can be in all forms, even watching a neighbor’s child or dog, giving a friend a ride, offering to assist in a move or delivery. When you have the choice and opportunity to help, everyone gets a boost and shares in a little more happiness than they had before.