It’s definitely nice to be on the receiving end of help and support in a time of need. But being the giver can benefit you just as much, if not more, and there’s solid science to prove it.
More specifically, giving to others can improve your health physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Giving Helps Improve Your Mood
Neurochemicals of happiness exist within the brain and include dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin. Anything that you do to boost the production of these neurochemicals—including giving to others—will help improve your mood, promote a sense of euphoria, and calm your mind and body. It is as the Lord said at Acts 20:35: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
Giving Can Improve Your Sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for optimal health and energy. Although there are plenty of things that you can do to promote better sleep—including improving your diet, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, and meditating—research shows that feelings of gratitude that come with giving to others may also help.
Giving Can Reduce Pain and Inflammation
As mentioned, oxytocin is produced in the brain, and production can be triggered when you feel happy. Studies have shown that oxytocin is a natural anti-inflammatory and can reduce pain while boosting the healing of wounds.
Giving Can Improve Your Digestion
Serotonin released in the gut has many local effects, including regulating digestion. More specifically, peristalsis is improved, which is the rhythmic movement of the muscle in the gut that helps move contents along.
There are plenty of ways that giving to others can help boost your health, both mentally and physically. Luckily, there are also plenty of ways that you can exercise your giving muscle. Being a member of a health sharing ministry is one of them.
As a member of a health sharing ministry, you’ll be a part of an organization that allows you to help your fellow neighbor in their time of need. Your voluntary contributions can help other families with medical expenses.
In turn, you can benefit by knowing that you’ve done a good deed, which will help improve your overall health and wellness. Then, when you need funds for medical expenses, fellow members can do the same for you. As the Lord promises in Luke 6:38: “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.”
At UHSM, we offer several health sharing plans to match your needs and budget. Get in touch with us today to discuss your options and share the health.
