With the Christmas holiday fast approaching, many are experiencing the fear that nips at its heels. Am I prepared? Have I bought all my gifts? Will they arrive on time? All natural thoughts, yet strong enough to consume you to the point where it’s tempting to sit back in a huff and think “Is it all worth it?”
The answer is a resounding yes.
There is an intrinsic sense of joy that comes from finding that special something for that special someone and seeing their eyes light up upon opening it. A giant smile crosses you face, your heart races, and your brain begins firing on all cylinders as your body swells with joy over having made someone’s day.
All of those emotions you feel? They are just some of the many proven benefits associated with the act of giving and generosity as a whole. According to one study, those that give to charities saw an increased reaction in the “pleasure” center of the brain, while another study shows that giving can actually be contagious. One only need look at the “pay it forward” model often scene in the drive-thru lines of fast food and coffee restaurants to understand that there is an inkling of truth to this.
Studies have also shown the act of giving in any capacity can elicit a number of health benefits, primarily in the area of reduced stress. One 2006 study showed that those who give to others as a form of social support experienced lower blood pressure levels than those that didn’t; another study from 1999 showed that elderly people who contributed their time to volunteering at two or more organizations were 44% less likely to die over a five-year period than those that don’t. A seemingly grim reminder that the happiness we extend to others has a tremendous impact on our own well-being.
The benefits of giving extend beyond the exchange of gifts or time. This holiday season, you should be mindful to give yourself. Give your heart. Give your soul. Give all the love and joy you have stirring inside you to others, to family members, co-workers, friends, and those less unfortunate than you. The positive effects can extend far beyond a momentary feeling of happiness – they can help change a life.
However you intend to give this year, always remember that Pak Mail is here to help. We do everything we can to ensure that your gifts get to their destination on time, and will exhaust every option in our repertoire to make you happy, because providing you with the best service make us happy.
All of us here at Pak Mail wish you a happy, healthy, and prosperous holiday and New Year.