‘Tis the season where we give and receive. It’s undeniable that this time of year can feel magical. Perhaps it’s due to familiar traditions that strike the heart strings of our inner child, or an increase in social festivities connecting us with community and the feelings of belonging.
We think the magic has a lot to do with the positive effects that occur when we choose to GIVE.
Whether we give of our time, company, resources, or special skills, the act of giving not only benefits the receiver, but also the overall well-being of the person giving.[1] Research shows that when we give to, or offer service to others, there are several neurotransmitters released in the body including the trifecta of “feel good” chemicals: serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine. What exactly does this chemical cocktail do in the body? Many things, but in terms of increasing our well-being:
· serotonin helps to regulate mood,
· oxytocin promotes bonding and connection, and;
· dopamine plays a major role in experiencing pleasure.[2]
When we participate in the act of giving, and release these “happy, feel good” chemicals, we experience physical and mental perks, such as a reduction in the sensations of stress and anxiety [3], lower blood pressure, higher self-esteem, and increased perceived happiness, just to name a few [4]. With the act of giving or serving being the ultimate win-win situation, one might ask, “how do I add more generosity to my daily life?” Here are some suggestions to awaken the spirit of giving everyday:
1. Purposefully direct your lifeforce energy; be intentional with the gift of your presence, focus, and words which cannot be underestimated in terms of impact
2. Fill your cup first so that you can share & give to others. Put yourself in the optimal position to give, by prioritizing your well-being. You cannot pour from an empty cup. Be sure your cup ‘flow-ith over’.
3. Consider the needs of others. Thoughtful gifts account for what brings someone else joy, what someone else may need due to lack, or what someone else may need assistance with. A true gift is not given with expectation of anything in return. If you’re not sure what someone needs, just ask.
4. Make connection. Things that seem small and have no monetary value can make great impact: a phone call, a text to say “Hi”, a heart-felt letter. Let the people you care about know you are thinking of them.
Wishing you joy and peace this holiday season, full of gifting and serving. Notice the impact on yourself and others and perhaps, make the joy of gifting a regular practice throughout the year, increasing your well-being and that of others.
[1]Smith, Christian, and Hilary Davidson. The Paradox of Generosity: Giving We Receive, Grasping We Lose. Oxford University Press, 2014.
[2]“Why Giving Is Good for Your Health.” Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, 27Nov. 2023, https://www.health.clevelandclinic.org/why-giving-is-good-for-your-health/
[3]Han S, Kim K, Burr JA.STRESS-BUFFERING EFFECTS OF VOLUNTEERING ON SALIVARY CORTISOL: RESULTS FROM ADAILY DIARY STUDY. Innov Aging. 2018 Nov 11;2(Suppl 1):75. doi:10.1093/geroni/igy023.283. PMCID: PMC6228389.
[4]Whillans, A. V., Dunn, E. W., Sandstrom, G. M.,Dickerson, S. S., & Madden, K. M. (2016). Is spending money on others good for your heart? Health Psychology, 35(6), 574–583
