When you read those words, what comes to your mind? Or should we ask, WHO comes to your mind? Isn't it true that the most generous people you know who are sensitive to the needs of others are also the happiest and least stressed? And the opposite is also true: the selfish, penny pincher who jealously hoards and rarely, if ever, gives (without strings attached) is a miserable human being, has few friends and seldom seems happy.

A number of research studies have concluded that giving affects our brain chemistry. For example, people who give often report feelings of euphoria, which psychologists have referred to as the "Helper's High." They believe that charitable activity induces endorphins...and also lowers the stress hormones that cause unhappiness.

The bottom line from all the research on giving is that it is not just good for your favorite cause; it's good for you, too. For relief from stress and depression, it's probably more cost-effective than whatever your doctor might prescribe. For getting a little high, it's not illegal, and a lot less fattening than booze.
  __________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." - Winston Churchill