Lend a hand, boost your health

Let’s explore a way to boost your well-being without kale smoothies or running a marathon. Yes, you read that correctly. The secret? Helping those around you.

Helping others benefits the community and also brings joy to those who give. Mayo Clinic highlights three health benefits from volunteering:

• Supports physical and mental well-being

• Builds purpose and new skills

• Strengthens connections with others

University of Maryland Medical System notes that helping others may reduce blood pressure through increased physical activity and lower stress levels.

Volunteering is also a good mood booster. Lending a hand can lower the risk of anxiety and depression since acts of service trigger the release of feel-good hormones that naturally lift your mood.

Many volunteers often feel a sense of purpose when they give their time to meaningful activities. According to Mayo Clinic, this can help improve self-esteem, particularly in older adults.

Service is an easy way to make new friends or deepen friendships you already have by spending time together. And here’s another bonus. Laughter. When you spend time with others, humor often sneaks in. Whether it’s a shared smile or a fun joke, Mayo Clinic shares that laughter can reduce stress, relax your muscles and support immune function.

Leafy greens and exercise will always remain healthy choices, but so are packaging meals at the soup kitchen, helping your local animal shelter, volunteering at the senior center or mowing your neighbor’s yard. Helping others is a simple way to support your well-being while making a difference in the lives of those around you.