With the Holidays around the corner, we will soon be immersed with preparations and planning for family gatherings and all of the festivities that come with it. We will be making lists and thinking of what to give thanks for – with some easy choices such as family and friends.
This is the time of year that we all really focus on what we are most thankful for. In the spirit of giving thanks we often turn to giving a helping hand to those around us at home and in the community. Research shows that giving is beneficial and healthy for us. There are several benefits to giving (which include volunteering and making charitable donations).
- Lower mortality rates: those who volunteer have been shown to live longer
- Lower depression rates: those who give get a giver’s high
- Lower heart disease: high volunteerism rates are correlated with lower heart disease
- Lower risk of addiction: giving decreases addictive behavior
- Lower blood pressure: giving helps lower blood pressure
As you go through the hustle and bustle of the Holidays, and you give thanks for your many blessings, keep in mind the spirit of giving. This will not only improve your overall health and well-being but you will be impacting another person’s life for the better.
References
“5 ways giving is good for your health” Best Health
“Giving is good for your health” The Philanthropist
“5 ways giving is good for your health” Best Health
“Giving is good for your health” The Philanthropist