You heard it straight from the horse’s mouth…
Researchers at the University of Michigan reported that older people who were followed for five years reduced their risk of dying by 60% simply by being helpful to friends, neighbors, or relatives. The ones receiving the help, however, didn’t alter their death risk at all.
Whether you think I’m the horse, or the scientists are, either way the mouth speaketh an interesting truth…
Doing good deeds has health benefits.
Maybe kindness is its own reward. Maybe it’s good to feel useful. Maybe giving induces the warm and fuzzies, which in turn support wellbeing. Maybe keeping active when doing things for someone is the secret to superior coffin-dodging. Whatever the reason, there’s a clear connection between longevity and helping others.
One of the best cures for negative emotion is performing a selfless act.
So do something nice for someone today.
And remember ye the flipside: when you accept another person’s help, you’re giving THEM an opportunity to be healthier.
Giddyup.
Happy Helping,
Conor Kelly
P.S. In the spirit of today’s message, if there’s anything I can do to help you – let me know in the comments. It would be my pleasure…and I’ll live longer.
P.P.S. Just noticed there are exactly 3 spots left for my Lean for Life talk tonight in Liberty Village (6.30PM), so if you haven’t registered yet, come by. You’d love it. The deets: