The Physical Benefits of Doing Good Deeds
When we think about doing good deeds for others, we often focus on the positive impact it can have on the recipients of our kindness. However, what we don't always consider is the impact it can have on ourselves. In addition to the emotional and mental benefits, doing good deeds for others can also have significant physical benefits. Here are some of the physical benefits of doing good deeds for others, including evidence from research.
Bringing a book to the local free library.
1. Reduced Stress
One of the most significant physical benefits of doing good deeds for others is the reduction in stress that it can provide. Stress is a natural response to the challenges and demands of life, but when it becomes chronic, it can have serious negative effects on the body. Chronic stress has been linked to a variety of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Fortunately, doing good deeds for others can help to counteract the negative effects of stress.
According to a study conducted by Carnegie Mellon University, people who volunteer their time to help others have lower levels of stress hormones than those who don't. The study involved 200 adults, half of whom volunteered at a community organization for one month, while the other half did not. At the end of the study period, the volunteers had lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol than the non-volunteers. Additionally, the volunteers reported feeling less stressed overall.
Another study, published in the Journal of Health Psychology, found that people who performed acts of kindness for others experienced a reduction in stress levels. The study involved 77 adults, half of whom were instructed to perform acts of kindness for others. At the end of the study period, the group that performed acts of kindness had lower levels of stress.
In addition, a study published in the International Journal of Psychophysiology found that performing acts of kindness can increase activity in the vagus nerve, which is responsible for regulating heart rate and other bodily functions. By increasing activity in the vagus nerve, doing good deeds for others can help to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.
2. Boosted Immune System
In addition to reducing stress, doing good deeds for others can also have a positive impact on your immune system. The immune system is responsible for fighting off infections and diseases, and when it's functioning properly, it can help to keep you healthy and strong. A study conducted by the University of California, Los Angeles found that people who performed acts of kindness for others experienced an increase in the production of antibodies. Antibodies are proteins that are produced by the immune system to help fight off infections and diseases. By increasing the production of antibodies, doing good deeds for others can help to boost the immune system and keep you healthy.
Another study, published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine, found that people who provided emotional support to others had stronger immune systems than those who did not. The study involved 50 married couples, half of whom were instructed to provide emotional support to their partners over a 12-day period, while the other half were instructed to provide no emotional support. At the end of the study period, the group that provided emotional support had stronger immune systems than the group that did not.
3. Lower Blood Pressure
Another physical benefit of doing good deeds for others is the reduction in blood pressure that it can provide. High blood pressure is a common health problem that can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health issues. Fortunately, there are many lifestyle changes that can help to lower blood pressure, including doing good deeds for others.
A study conducted by the University of British Columbia found that people who performed acts of kindness for others experienced a reduction in blood pressure. This is because doing good deeds for others can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can have a positive impact on blood pressure. Additionally, the sense of purpose and fulfillment that comes from doing good deeds for others can also have a positive impact on overall heart health.
Boxing up some of our chickens' eggs for a neighbor.
4. Reduced Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is a common health problem that can have a significant negative impact on quality of life. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, illness, or stress. Fortunately, doing good deeds for others can help to reduce chronic pain levels and improve overall physical health. A study conducted by the University of California, Berkeley found that people who performed acts of kindness for others experienced a reduction in chronic pain levels. This is because doing good deeds for others can help to promote the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by the body. By promoting the release of endorphins, doing good deeds for others can help to reduce chronic pain levels and improve overall physical health.
Small Good Things: A Journal to Help You Feel Good By Doing Good (For Yourself and Others)
A Win-Win
When doing the right thing is actually the thing that benefits everyone involved, more of the right thing gets done.
I published the guided journal, Small Good Things: A Journal to Help You Feel Good By Doing Good (For Yourself and Others) to help myself and anyone who wants to join me get into the habit of doing small good things for others and small acts of self-care regularly. It encourages you each day and occasionally invites you to look back and reflect on the impact you're having.
If you'd like to join me, visit goodjuly.com to get your copy and let's start improving lives - our own and the people around us.