Turns out giving is good for the Soul and Our Bodies.

You know that warm fuzzy feeling you get when you give a gift? Turns out, it’s actually good for your health. Research shows that giving a gift, as well as giving time or donating to charities, has a positive impact on your physical and mental health and there is some evidence that it contributes to a longer life. 

Researchers have been measuring the benefits of giving, and the findings reveal that giving and volunteering reduce stress and depression. Giving also promotes healthy social interactions, a sense of community and a sense of purpose. Is it possible giving is just as important to maintaining health as avoiding tobacco and obesity? Did you ever stop and wonder why Why Good Things Happen to Good People? Generous behavior is closely associated with reduced risk of illness and mortality and lower rates of depression.
In a 2006 study, at the National Institutes of Health found that when people give to charities, it activates regions of the brain associated with pleasure and trust, creating – that fuzzy feeling. 

Still need more proof giving is good for you? A study from Carnegie Mellon University, published in 2013 in Psychology and Aging: Researchers discovered that adults over age 50 who volunteered on a regular basis were less likely to develop high blood pressure than non-volunteers.

Researchers have found that adolescents who give their time to help others also benefit by developing a sense of purpose and a healthy connection to community. Giving and volunteering probably won’t counter the unhealthy effects of gorging on unhealthy food. However, those who receive your gift, time or charity will appreciate the gesture – and you will benefit from a big dose of happiness and good health. 

I’m sharing with you my Video on WHY I have been donating my time and talents to support headfrothecure.org in North Texas every year for 8 years. This is my BIG GIFT of GIVE. I encourage you to find your own cause, mission or community project and GIVE of your time. Remember: One person can make a difference and we all have a part ensuring our communities are places that promote health, happiness and community.

More ideas: Donate canned food to a local food bank or food drive.

Volunteer to serve a meal at a shelter.

Volunteer at a senior center or assisted living facility. 

Volunteer at the humane society or a dog/cat rescue organization.