We all know that helping others makes us feel good. Funny enough, scientists have also proved the same. Researchers from the University of Zurich conducted a study that involved 50 people. They promised them some money in the future. They wanted to find out whether the mere thought of giving made people happier. Of the 50, the researchers asked 25 to spend some money on themselves and the other 25 to spend it on someone else.
Even before they had given, the researchers performed MRI scans on the areas of their brains associated with generosity and happiness. They found that the ones who wanted to give were happier because they interacted more with the generosity spots in their mind. Another exciting part of the study was that no matter how little people gave, the effects of happiness were the same. Want to be happier? Give what you have to a charity such as yadezra.net.
Generosity is good for cardiovascular health and makes you live longer
Make generosity a regular habit in your life rather than a spontaneous event. Long-term generosity can breed long-term happiness and general wellbeing. For older people, giving may be the bridge to good health and longer life. Further research suggests that generosity could help lower blood pressure and make you live longer.
Giving could be the key to reducing your stress and anxiety
Giving will boost your mental health. Studies also prove that giving has positive effects on some parts of your brain. These brain parts are the septal area and the ventral striatum, which scientists associate with parental care. The ventral striatum also generates feelings of love and gratification.
The study further proves that giving to people you know or knowing precisely how your funds will be of help reduces stress and anxiety. The part of the brain associated with stress and anxiety is known as the amygdala. So, as much as possible visit those you want to donate to and connect with them for better mental wellbeing.
When you give, you feel wealthier and less sorry for yourself
Further research proved that low-income earners in the US earning an annual amount of less than $20,000 gave more to charity than those in the higher income bracket of up to $300,000. The argument was that they were trying to alleviate their feelings of poverty.
When you give even if you are tight on budget, you take the focus off of yourself and think about other people who are also in need. The feeling that you can make a positive difference in someone else’s life could be the key to quit feeling sorry for yourself and developing a sense of purpose.
Buying yourself the latest designer clothes, shoes, or taking yourself out to an expensive restaurant is not the key to happiness. Giving is the key to a wholesome you—a healthy mind and body. When you give; you become happier, healthier, and your productivity increases; enabling you to become wealthier. As you give, eliminate any selfish motives and give for the sake of helping someone else. Otherwise, you will not benefit.