Giving Is Receiving: The Positive Impact of Generosity on Mental and Physical Health

This is one of the first things we are taught as children. It is the basis for humanity and kindness, but how does it impact your overall wellbeing?

When we think of the human experience, the act of giving brings joy, fulfilment, and meaning to our lives. Being philanthropic means leading with value and contributing to others. Whether you realise it or not, this way of being lets you receive so much more in return energetically, spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically. 

Helping others gives us purpose, it strengthens community bonds, and it creates a ripple effect of happiness, which positively impacts our world and our overall wellbeing. 

Wellness, or wellbeing, goes so far beyond spa days, yoga classes, and eating nutritious foods. Wellness is an active process of making choices that lead you to a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life. 

From disenchanted to vivacious

In relationships, giving is an expression of love, care, and appreciation. There is the relationship with one’s self, with others, and with our community.  

We naturally seek out relationships in our lives because they are a crucial part of our overall well-being. It creates a sense of connection. When we put energy into our relationships, we show them that they are valued and that we are invested in their happiness. Without this energy, we tend to feel lonely, unworthy, and even disenchanted with life.

There is no shortage of doom and gloom when you look at the news. While you can’t control other people or circumstances, you can choose to take control of your own thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and actions.

Numerous studies, such as the 2006 study by Jorge Moll and colleagues at the National Institutes of Health, have shown that giving to others has a positive impact on our mental and physical health.

Increased Happiness: 

When we give, it activates the reward centres in our brain associated with pleasure, social connection, and trust, creating a “warm glow” effect, releasing feel-good hormones like dopamine and oxytocin, known as the “helper’s high.” This sense of happiness and fulfilment can last long after the act of giving.

Reduced Stress:

Engaging in philanthropic activities can provide a sense of purpose and meaning, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety.

Improved Physical Health:

Giving has been linked to improved physical health. Those who engage in philanthropic activities tend to have lower blood pressure, lower rates of heart disease, and a longer lifespan.

Enhanced Sense of Community:

Philanthropy can also enhance a sense of community, the energetic layer of Relationships in Wellness 360 created by the International Association of Wellness Professionals. By giving to causes that benefit others, you can feel connected to a larger group and share in the satisfaction of making a positive impact.

Giving creates a deeper sense of purpose and meaning in our lives. It allows us to contribute to something larger than ourselves, whether it is a charity, a community project, or a cause we are passionate about. This sense of purpose can give us a greater sense of fulfilment and satisfaction in life. It provides an opportunity to align our values with our actions. This sense of alignment can make us feel like we are making a difference in the world and living a life that is true to who we are.

There is no greater way to receive than to give wholeheartedly. Stronger together for happiness, health, and fulfilment.

By Natalia Edelmann, Managing Director at Luxe Club Retreats and Founder of Wellness for Wealth, where the path to true wealth starts with you. After her corporate career in wealth management, Natalia had her own eat, pray, love moment, retreat hopping around the world going from disenchanted to vivacious. She is now dedicated to helping impact-driven women to live vivaciously.