Help someone, Help yourself

Being healthy is not all about eating good foods and practicing yoga. Sometimes it’s just about having a good feeling about ourselves, knowing that we are good people as part of a good universe. Think about the last time you did something nice for someone: didn’t you feel good? Doing good things for people (or animals!) makes us feel worthy, accepted, thankful for what we have that others might not have. Volunteering or helping others sets up good chemicals in our brains that boost our immune systems and our moods. It’s also a great way to meet new people. Helping someone carry their groceries, or holding a door for someone are little things that go a long way in people’s lives. People are very disconnected in this fast-paced world we live in, and we desperately need a reason to connect. We are a gregarious species. By going out of your way to lend a hand, we will be doing much to bring this world closer together, one good deed at a time.

I will be volunteering at the Mylestone Equine Rescue for 3 hours every Friday morning now, because I have to be around my furry big friends that I’ve missed since my old Thoroughbred died last year. I know that it will give me a chance to give of myself and to get good exercise at the same time, and I will get to meet other like-minded volunteers in the process. If you look around, you will find plenty of places that need help, especially with the holidays fast approaching. Check with your church for some ideas. There are soup kitchens and other charities that would love to have extra hands–it’s even a great idea to get your kids involved! It’s never too early to develop the art of giving in our children.

There are many small ways we can show others we care and rekindle our connectedness to our world. If someone can’t find something in a store, offer to help. Offer to give directions to someone who looks lost. Trade off babysitting in your neighborhood, or offer to cook a meal for someone who is ill. Be creative and I am sure you will find a way to be of service to others- and to yourself. Like I said, the human species was never meant to live in isolation, and even though we are surrounded by people, many of us live our lives as if we were alone. Do you know what I am talking about? Reach out and make the connection. Feel the connectedness and “feel the love”.