When we grew up, we were told that it’s better to give than to receive. And now science has the proof.
Check out this guide from Oprah.com to see what’s in it for you…
It’s The Thought That Counts
Simply contemplating generosity boosts your immunity. When Harvard students watched a film about Mother Teresa tending to orphans, the number of protective antibodies in their saliva surged; when the students were asked to focus on times when they’d been loved by or loving to others, their antibody levels stayed elevated for an hour. In another study, the brain’s pleasure centers lit up when people made check marks next to a list of organizations to which they wanted to donate.
Lend an Ear, Help Your Heart
Being generous with your attention can reduce your risk of heart attack. Cardiac arrest is highly correlated with the amount of self-reference (“I,” “me,” “my”) in a person’s speech. The best advice? Listen to and connect with others—social ties lower your risk of dying from heart disease.
Lend a Hand, Lower Your Pain
People suffering from chronic pain report decreased intensity, and less disability and depression, when they reach out to others in similar pain. In one study, pain was reduced by 13 percent. Scientists believe the release of endorphins explains the phenomenon.
Goodness Nose
In a study conducted at Carnegie Mellon University, people who were socially connected reported catching fewer colds. Volunteering is, of course, one of the simplest ways to connect.
Love Heals Some Wounds
In a 2005 Ohio State University study, married couples were given tiny blisters on two occasions. During the first visit, they talked to each other supportively; during the second, they hashed out relationship conflicts. The blisters took a day longer to heal after the second visit, and two days longer in couples with high levels of anger.
What ways do you like to give back? Do you leave quarters at the car wash, volunteer your time, help a friend in need, or donate to a cause? Pilates 1901 wants to know!
We’ve feel we’ve been blessed in a big way with great clients and fantastice staff ~ AND we want to pay that forward by supporting my favorite local charity, Turning Point. Stay tuned! This is one super cool organization!
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