they say i say

Macy Schares

They say I say one pager

           

It is often said that the gift of giving is the best gift of all. However, when some people say this others automatically assume that this is said so that the person talking doesn’t look greedy. However scientist’s research says that the cliché stated in the first sentence is actually completely accurate; and I definitely agree. It is said that doing things for others improves your mood and can even improve your financial standing.

            In an article on Mom Blog Society, Sonja Lyubomirsky, a happiness expert from the University of California Riverside, explained that giving actually stimulates the pleasure part of the brain, releasing endorphins which leads to a term she calls “helpers high.”  This “high” comes from oxytocin that is also released while giving. It is more commonly recognized as a hormone produced breast feeding. The hormone oxytocin helps create a feeling of warmth and grow a bond between people, so essentially while you are giving you are also bonding with the person on the receiving end. Sonja also found that by acting positively, you are more prone to recognize the positive things in your life. In this article Sonja also explains that, “in giving, we are boosting our mood, which, in turn, provides us with greater benefits when it comes to our physical and mental health.”

           

            I agree with Sonja one hundred percent on how giving, and helping others is a mood booster. It makes me think back to times when I have gave someone a gift or helped someone in a time of need, when their face lights up it truly warms your heart, and leaves you feeling on top of the world. This feeling is not a fluke either it happens time and time again. I may dread getting up early on Saturday mornings to help at the nursing home, but by the end of the day I know I made a difference in their life and that is the best feeling ever. However, I also believe part of this euphoric feeling is on the receivers end. Giving is not just about getting, but I believe it is about making a difference in someone’s life, or bringing a little bit of joy to them. So, if we focus on giving and doing good for others naturally good will also come back in return.