We all know giving back by volunteering is a fantastic way to support and care for your community. But it’s also good for you, too. It may help you shine in your career, find your next job, make new connections and friendships but what about your physical health? Isn’t the greatest wealth your health? Volunteering has that covered, too! Studies have shown that altruism and selflessness contribute to greater physical well-being. We’ve highlighted three benefits below.
1. Volunteering Can Improve Overall Physical Health
If you have a chronic health condition, doctors often tell you to get moving and find more reasons to be on your feet or connecting with other people. Studies have found that volunteering reduces symptoms of heart disease and chronic pain, among other ailments. You’re rarely in one place for too long when you volunteer. It always keeps you moving and meeting new people.
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2. Volunteering Can Reduce Stress
Any kind of excessive stress doesn’t just take an emotional toll; it affects your physical well-being. It can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, and even serious health problems. According to the United Health Group, 78% of people who volunteered in the past 12 months say that volunteering lowers their stress levels. That has to be good! Plus, doesn’t everyone just feel better when they do something nice for someone else? We love that warm, fuzzy feeling!
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3. Volunteering May Help You Live Longer
We’re still searching for the fountain of youth, but in the meantime, volunteers have been shown to live longer, healthier lives. People who volunteered seemed to have lower mortality rates than individuals who did not volunteer. Studies have found that thanks to the physical quality of life improvements and the psychological benefits volunteers are healthier overall and less prone to chronic stress.
Volunteering may not pay money, but if the greatest wealth is health, volunteering may be the most rewarding job of all! So what are you waiting for? Visit us at VolunteerSquare.com and sign up for free. We’ll send you free e-alerts with volunteer projects that match your own skills and interests.
We have a big crop of projects waiting for you. Mentor at Laurel House in Stamford. Rescue food with Community Plates in Norwalk. Help the Fairfield Museum give tours. Lots of projects waiting just for you!
