Giving? It Helps the Giver More than Expected!

Donating is giving of yourself beyond what you are paid to do.

Have you ever encountered a person who gave way more than expected? Went above and beyond, without compensation? Have you been that person? Do you know how it feels to resent giving? Do you know how it feels to give happily?

The Science I Explored

Humans are social animals, so it is no surprise that we are wired to help one another. In our complex modern society, there are many ways to give, and the good news is that we now understand that both the giver and receiver benefit from the relationship. Neuroscience has demonstrated that giving is a powerful pathway for creating more personal joy and improving overall health.

But the benefits don’t stop at moods! Serotonin is connected to sleep, digestion, memory, learning, and appetite. Dopamine is connected to motivation and arousal. Oxytocin, “the cuddle hormone,” is among the most ancient of our neurochemicals and has a powerful effect on the brain and the body. When oxytocin begins to flow, blood pressure decreases and the foundation for sexual arousal is built. Bonding increases, social fears are reduced and trust and empathy are enhanced. Oxytocin is also an anti-inflammatory and reduces pain and enhances wound healing.

So, if giving allows us to secrete all the chemicals at once, we owe it to ourselves to give as often as possible![1]

[1] Eva Ritvo, MD, “The Neuroscience of Giving: Proof that helping others helps you,” Psychology Today, Updated April 24, 2014, https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/vitality/201404/the-neuroscience-giving.

A Situation

Your school is putting on a play in which some of your students have roles. The show takes place in the evening. This is the third night of the show. The director needs a helping hand, and your students ask you to come as they talk excitedly about the show in class.

Donating Your Time

We are really looking at creating a personal joy by helping another. Donate your time and abilities to help make the show a success, or just show up for someone else. Even if you cannot afford to stay from start to finish, donate an hour. One hour can encourage and support your students and lend a helping hand to a fellow team of educators AND boost your overall wellbeing.

You can even donate pizza; feed the cast and crew if you haven’t the time to stay! This is about the social bond between humans and the personal benefit for you.

Say it with me: “I think I know how I can help.” Now can you see the smiling faces of appreciation? And how does that make you feel?

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