Gifts That Make a Difference
Just as money is getting tighter than Michael Phelps's abs, along comes the news that giving is good for you. Fortunately, you don't have to dole out a Wii to everyone from your dog walker to your dry cleaner in order to reap the benefits.
Acts of kindness -- such as running to the pharmacy for a sick friend or lending emotional support to your significant other -- not acts of shopping, are what help you live longer and healthier every day. Deeds of generosity build social support, bringing you a sense of authenticity and purpose, which is vital to giving your heart a reason to keep beating. A healthy mental state in turn strengthens your "security force" (your immune system) and keeps your arteries younger. Researchers saw this in a study of couples married for many years. Those who devoted time and energy to others and provided emotional support to their spouses lived longer and with fewer disabilities than their less generous peers. (Find out more about how having a strong sense of purpose in life can impact your longevity.)
You can create a sense of purpose by volunteering at a library, a hospital, a soup kitchen, or an animal-rescue facility. But why not start at home? Lend a hand to friends, even when there is no obvious need. Rescue your spouse when he locks himself out of the car instead of leaving it to AAA (not that ours have ever had to do this for us . . . more than twice in one week). Or send your spouse out for a walk and have dinner made when he gets home. You'll both be healthier for it. (Read more about how to share your gifts and talents.)
