Escaping the commercialism (5 benefits of giving) Part 2 of 5
To those that responded and are “in”, I really thank you for joining us on this journey. I know that you will enjoy great benefits of giving and the world will be just a little bit brighter as a result this holiday season.
Below is benefit #2 to YOU so read on.
And for those just joining us…
Ever wonder how to escape the commercialism (and depression) of the holidays?
I am personally fed up with allowing the voices of this world to rob me of the joy, connection and beauty the holidays offer. But I understand too the very real temptations to be sad during this time.
As you know by now, I am an advocate of rising above our circumstances to reach for the “other world” power that is available. And I, for one, am not about to allow myself to be dragged down by all the divisive doomsday media, the constant arguments about who should be in power and the continual fear evoking messages about the virus.
Sometimes we just have to take responsibility for what we allow in our own heads and worlds and say “enough is enough”. And I will not forfeit the joy that could be mine IF I am focused on what matters and really what lasts.
So if the news isn’t enough to rob you, the commercialism of this time of year will unless you act with intention.
So in an attempt to stave off the demons of despair that can really come out in full force this time of year and be proactive…I have gotten deep into studying the benefits of giving…both from a spiritual and even scientific view.
So I wanted to discuss 5 benefits of giving and again invite you to join me for this holiday season so perhaps you too could rise above and be a light to others.
The first benefit we discussed last time was:
- Giving makes US (the giver) feel happy – Many of us are doing the 5 acts of kindness / week challenge through the holidays to test this principle and see for ourselves if this doesn’t help our own happiness level. (NOTE: I have already felt a surge of excitement about my giving plans for this weekend and I haven’t even given yet but the thought makes me happy.)
The 2nd benefit of giving is:
- Giving is good for YOUR health – Elderly people who volunteered for 2 or more organizations were shown to be 44% less likely to die over the 5 year period they volunteered. (even after controlling health indicators such as eating, exercise etc.) Giving was shown to reduce stress, a major contributor to health complications.
Hmmmm, couldn’t you use a little stress reduction with what you have faced this year?
Come on and join us…5 acts of kindness / week challenge through the holidays and let’s see if you don’t feel a little happier and even healthier?
Let’s run our own experiment. Post in the comments and share how your giving this week made YOU feel.
Stay tuned for the 3rd benefit on Tuesday.
To your JOY filled, healthier Holi – Days !
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