What Are The Benefits Off Giving?

Generosity is more powerful than you know.

Ever get that warm, glowing feeling when you do something nice for someone? Giving gifts and spreading cheer — or just dropping off a surprise cup of coffee at a busy coworker’s desk — feels good.

There’s good reason for that glow. Whether it’s the gift of time, talent or a monetary donation, research studies have shown that generosity has a positive impact on emotional and physical well-being, and not just for those on the receiving end.

Why giving is good for your health

Maybe you sent a birthday card to someone yesterday. You donated pet food or supplies to your local animal shelter last week. And you picked up groceries for a neighbor a month ago. All these acts of kindness really add up.

And doing them regularly could help you live a longer, healthier life.

“Research suggests that the act of giving can help us feel a sense of purpose, reduce our stress and depression levels and can even help us improve our self-esteem,” explains Priscilla Riley, LPC, a licensed professional counselor at Geisinger. “These emotional benefits then lead to positive impacts on our physical health.”

And it doesn’t stop there. Those who give reap some other positive health benefits, including:

1. Lower blood pressure

Research has shown that people who volunteer or provide support to others have lower blood pressure than those who don’t. Helping has also been shown to improve heart health.

2. Improved personal connection

“Volunteering provides opportunities for social interactions that some people may not have otherwise, especially seniors,” says Ms. Riley. “These positive social connections promote healthy aging and can reduce the risk for several health conditions.”

3. Reduced stress and depression levels

Those who give regularly to others through volunteering or by being involved in their community improve their self-esteem and reduce their stress and depression levels.

“This is likely a result of the chemicals that are released in the brain when people partake in giving behaviors,” says Ms. Riley. “These chemicals include serotonin (the mood regulation chemical), dopamine (the feel-good chemical) and oxytocin (the ‘cuddle’ or ‘love’ hormone). This is why we feel excited and satisfied when giving a gift or when we find fulfillment in volunteering for a cause we’re passionate about."

4. Better immune health

Did you know when you give back you can boost your immune system? Lowering stress and improving your mood take strain off your immune system, which can help you stay healthy.

5. Longer life

When we do good deeds, we reduce our stress levels and the negative effects prolonged stress can have on the body.

“When our body’s stress response is turned on for an extended period of time, our body is negatively affected,” says Ms. Riley. “This can lead to premature aging and increased risk for certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes.”

In fact, studies have shown that people who volunteer their time have a lower risk of death than those who don’t.

Ways to give back

It doesn’t take a lot of money or time to help others. Not sure where to begin? Start with these ideas:

Be supportive

Reach out to a friend, neighbor, coworker or anyone who needs a little extra support — a phone call, text or video call can really make a difference.

Lighten the load

Offer to run errands for an elderly or high-risk neighbor who’s spending more time at home these days. Bring a meal to a busy friend. Ask a loved one what chore you can do for them. Then schedule a time to do it.

Donate to charity

If you’re low on funds, donate canned goods and other non-perishable goods or clothing you no longer wear.

Shop local

Help a local business by buying gift cards or ordering goods or food for delivery or pickup. Another way you can help? Promote their business. Share their posts on social media. Or give them a boost through word of mouth by talking them up to your friends and neighbors.

Donate blood

Find a location near you and give the gift of life to help people and hospitals in need of blood or blood products year-round.

Practice random acts of kindness

A few ideas: Compliment a stranger. Pay for someone’s coffee in the drive-thru line. Feed an expired parking meter. These small things may seem minor to you, but they can make someone’s day.

No matter the season, find small ways to give back and enjoy those health-boosting benefits for years to come.