Most people will agree with me that the act of giving to others is a good idea in itself. Actually, it tends to depict support, kindness and empathy for other people around you. But when you give more to others, it will have a direct positive effect on your mental wellbeing. Sometimes people think of wellbeing in relation to what they have – be it their income, job, car or even a home. However, what they may not know is that the way we think and the things we do have a great impact on our mental health and wellbeing. In this article, we are going to have a look at some of the reasons as to why giving is good for you and your community.
- Promotes Social Connection and Cooperation
Chances are that when you give, you are more likely to get the same from your family, friends or even the community at large. These exchanges tend to promote cooperation and a sense of trust that in turn ends up strengthening our ties with others. A simple gift such as a name necklace will not only make the recipient feel closer to us but also make us feel closer to them. You should, therefore, exercise kindness and generosity if you are to perceive other people more positively and charitably.
- Makes Us Feel Happy
The act of giving has been proven to make people happier than if they had decided to use the thing for their own personal gain. For instance recent studies found that giving money to other people tends to lift the happiness of participants more than spending it on themselves. This is not only applicable to money but any other act of kindness that you may show to other people. It is, therefore, advisable that you make kindness part of your life if you are to avoid the stress life brings at times.
- Good For Your Health
There is a strong connection between different acts of generosity and better health even among the elderly and sick people. Giving to people who are suffering from chronic health complications makes them feel loved and it is eventually reciprocated in their overall health. One of the reasons why giving may improve physical health and longevity is the fact that it helps in decreasing stress which is highly associated with a wide range of health complications. Furthermore, people who offer support to others tend to have lower blood pressure compared to those who do not.
Practicing the act of giving is a step in the right direction if you want to make your life better. However you should not push yourself to the limit as it will only end up increasing your stress levels. Instead, you should only give what you can as it will still go a long way in improving your wellbeing while at the same time touching the recipient’s heart.