Have you ever experienced the feeling of well-being or satisfaction after helping another person? It turns out this isn’t simply an emotional response. Studies show that acts of service can actually benefit our overall health! And, what could be better? Getting healthier while helping others — it’s a great partnership!
Quite a bit of research has been done on the effects of kindness. And the evidence clearly shows that those who practice gratitude, as well as regular acts of kindness, generally have greater feelings of contentment, overall well-being, and a positive mood. As Dr. Bhawani Ballamudi, a child psychiatrist with SSM Health explains, “What studies have shown is that when we are either thinking about kind acts or witnessing kind acts or engaging in acts of kindness to other people, there are several biochemical changes that happen in our brain.”
Why? Well, the answer is entirely chemical. Our bodies release a hormone called oxytocin (known as the “love” hormone) as well as dopamine when we engage in random acts of kindness. But for long-term benefits, these acts need to be performed regularly to reap the greatest benefit. This practice is so powerful that it is even being utilized to treat anxiety, pain, and depression. When we change the state of our hearts we are poised to create positive change around us with the happy result of also creating joy in our own lives.
What we have discovered about these results is being evaluated to see how they can be used to help with certain health conditions. Here are just a few of the ways.
So, what are ways you can incorporate more kindness and service in your life? The great news is the acts of service don’t need to be complicated or time-consuming to realize the health benefits! It can be as simple as helping someone load groceries in their car or returning a cart for someone. It can be as easy as a smile or holding the door for someone. Improve your health today by finding a few ways to serve!