Lesson 8 - Doing Well by Doing Good

An often-overlooked aspect of optimal health is altruism - our capacity to care about others and to act on their behalf. One definition of altruism is "a regard for the interests of others without concern for one’s self interest." Compassion is said to be at the heart of altruism. Studies of the health benefits of service to others are an exciting area of research that has recently enjoyed a surge of interest. Although the potential benefits of altruism on health have not yet been scientifically proven, there is a great deal of support to suggest a strong association exists.

Many researchers on the subject suggest that when you care for others you are really caring for yourself. This "do good feel good" hypothesis is particularly applicable when you start experiencing the impact of aging on your body and psyche.

 

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